March was Women’s History month. In reverence to people who paved the way to change, the following is a list of some influential women who fought for equality worldwide.

• Jane Austen
  • Born in December 1775, Jane Austen was one of the first female writers to become distinguished for her works. Known for her popular romantic literature, Austen paved the way for female authors to gain recognition for their works.
• Sojourner Truth
  • Born in 1797, influential activist and abolitionist Sojourner Truth is revered for her abolitionist work and women’s rights endeavors. Born into slavery,  Truth was determined to fight for racial equality. During the Civil War, Truth commenced relief efforts for black soldiers, collecting clothing and food. Truth’s powerful voice still resonates today, with riveting works such as “Ain’t I a Woman?” impacting for generations.
• Elizabeth Cady Stanton
  • Born in 1815, Elizabeth Cady Stanton was one of the leading figures in the early fight for women’s rights. Stanton was the president of National Woman Suffrage Association for twenty years. Stanton made no secret of her draw the women’s rights campaign, and when Stanton married abolitionist Henry Stanton, they famously left out the word “obey” on their vows, and headed immediately after to an anti-slavery convention in London. Stanton’s relentless efforts for equality for all people was monumental in breaking down many barriers toward reform.
• Susan B. Anthony
  • Born in 1820, Susan B. Anthony was a pioneer for the suffrage movement. Along with the help of Elizabeth Cady Stanton, Anthony created a publication that urged for changes in politics within the US, particularly, women’s right to vote. In addition, Anthony travelled the country giving speeches, and even voted illegally in the 1872 presidential election. Although Anthony didn’t live to see women gain the right to vote, she is recognized for her tireless efforts to gain equality.
• Eleanor Roosevelt
  • Born in 1884, First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt is remembered for her activism and effort in humanitarian causes. In the twelve years that Roosevelt served as First Lady. she was known for her work in political and racial equality. Later in life she was a prominent advocate for human rights and served as a delegate in the United Nations.
• Billie Holiday
  • Born in 1915, Billie Holiday was considered one of the best jazz singers of all time. Despite her lack of technical training or vocal coaching, Holiday’s unique voice, and intensity led to her immense popularity, and the recording of over 100 songs. Holiday was inducted posthumously into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 2010.  
• Indira Gandhi
  • Born in 1917, Indira Gandhi served as the first prime minister of India, and  is remembered for her capability, bringing reform and recognition to India. Serving the role of prime minister for 15 years total, Gandhi was applauded for being a clever and tireless leader.
• Audrey Hepburn
  • Born in 1929, Hepburn was regarded as a talented and actress and humble humanitarian. During World War II, Hepburn raised money for underground efforts, and developed a deep sympathy for war victims and victims of starvation. After the war, Hepburn moved to London and pursued her acting career. After playing a lead role in “Roman Holiday”, Hepburn secured her fame and won an Oscar for her performance. In her later years, Hepburn was appointed as a UNICEF  ambassador and became involved in efforts to help children worldwide.
• Benazir Bhutto
  • Born in 1953, Benazir Bhutto was the first elected prime minister of Pakistan. Her leadership was influential to women worldwide.
• Malala Yousafzai
  • Born in 1997, Malala Yousafzai was the youngest person to ever win the Nobel Peace Prize. Yousafzai is an advocate for girl’s education, and an outspoken activist against the Taliban, and was shot in the head by the Taliban in 2012. Continuing her activism, Yousafzai spoke out on the importance of education, and published her first book in 2013, I Am Malala.
• Sources
  • -Jane Austen: “Jane Austen.” Biography.com, A&E Television Networks, 27 Feb. 2018. Web.-Sojourner Truth: “Sojourner Truth.” History.com, A&E Television Networks, Web.

    -Elizabeth Cady Stanton: “Elizabeth Cady Stanton.” Biography.com, A&E Television Networks, 27 Feb. 2018. Web.

    -Susan B Anthony: “Susan B Anthony.” Biography.com, A&E Television Networks, 27 Feb. 2018. Web.

    -Eleanor Roosevelt: “Eleanor Roosevelt.” Biography.com, A&E Television Networks, 27 Feb. 2018. Web.

    -Billie Holiday: “Billie Holiday.” Biography.com, A&E Television Networks, 27 Feb 2018. Web.

    “Billie’s Storyville.” billyholiday.com, Tekspacular & Color of Thunder, Web.

    -Indira Gandhi: “Indira Gandhi.” History.com, A&E Television Networks, Web.

    -Audrey Hepburn: “Audrey Hepburn.” Biography.com, A&E Television Networks, 27 April 2017. Web.

    -Benazir Bhutto: “Benazir Bhutto.” History.com, A&E Television Networks, Web.

    -Malala Yousafzai: “Malala Yousafzai.” Biography.com, A&E Television Networks, 29 March 2018. Web.