Famous Women in History
There are famous women in history, from the past to the present, who have made such an impact during their lifetime that that the world will always remember them. What constitutes famous women is not just the incredible pioneering ones, but the infamous ones as well. This overview not only includes general historical facts and information about famous women in history but also touches on some specific women from Mother Theresa to Oprah Winfrey, neither of which had any kids. It includes where and when they were born and why they are so famous.
Although the majority of historical figures are men, many women in history have garnered attention for doing really good things or really bad things in life. While some women seek power and fame such as infamous historical queens and outlaws, others are thrust into their roles in history by simply doing what they believe to be right and just, even if it defies societal rules. International Womens Day on March 8th, is the perfect time to acknowledge the famous women in history that have made incredible achievements in their lives.
Arguably, the first famous women in history was Mary Magdalene who was born in the beginning of the first century AD. Whether you believe she was a follower of Jesus that witnessed his resurrection or possibly his wife as some modern literature suggests, there is no doubt she left her mark on the world.
Mother Theresa, who's real name is Agnes Gonxha Bojaxhiu, was born in Albania. She is a famous woman from the twentieth century who lived from 1910-1997. Her life was spent helping those less fortunate than herself while living a life completely devoted to god. She is quoted as saying..."We are all pencils in the hand of God writing love letters to the world."
Oprah Winfrey, born in Mississippi in 1954, is a modern day famous woman who has helped better the lives of many by speaking out on social issues most important to her such as women's health and child abuse. Her vast empire includes her own television network and her own magazine, both aimed at bettering the lives of women.
Some of the top famous women in history are included in following list:
- Harriet Tubman (Humanitarian and abolitionist who freed slaves through underground railroad)
- Eleanor Roosevelt (First lady of the U.S. who was actively involved in politics)
- Indira Gandhi (ruled India as Prime Minister for almost 2 decades)
- Helen Keller (Deaf and blind, she became one of the leading humanitarians of the 21st century)
- Susan B. Anthony (American civil rights leader instrumental in women's rights movement)
- Sacagawea (Befriended and guided Lewis and Clark on their expedition of the Western United States)
- Amelia Earhart (Flied across the Atlantic Ocean solo)
- Joan of Arc (Roman Catholic Saint)
- Marie Antoinette (Married into the French Monarchy and was executed under false charges)
- Marie Curie (First woman to win the Nobel Prize for research on radioactivity)
Some of the most infamous women in history are included in the following list:
- Lizzie Borden (accused of the 1892 axe murders of her mother and father, she was acquitted)
- Queen Mary I (British queen who murdered and tortured hundreds)
- Bonnie Elizabeth Parker (American gangster, part of the couple known as Bonnie and Clyde)
- Susan Smith (Killed young sons)
- Aileen Wuornos (Prostitute who killed numerous men)
- Andrea Yates (Drowned her five children)
- Amelia Elizabeth Dyer (killed newborns in England)
- Mary Anne Cotton (British woman who killed her children and others)
- Elizabeth Bathory (Murdered hundreds of women in Hungary)
- Lynette "Squeaky" Fromme (Manson Family Murder involvement)
