Biographies generously sponsored by Susan D. Whiting.

Biographies

Every woman has a story.

"The purpose of a storyteller is not to tell you how to think, but to give you questions to think upon."

-Brandon Sanderson, The Way of Kings

Women have always played an active role in history. Explore some of the historical women and contemporary newsmakers that continue to impact the world. New biographies are added regularly, so check back to discover inspiring new stories!

Featured Biographies

Sister Rosetta Tharpe was a skilled performer and woman guitarist, credited with the creation of rock and roll.

Sister Rosetta Tharpe

Toshiko Akiyoshi changed the face of jazz music over her 60-year career. As one of few women and Asian musicians in the jazz world, Akiyoshi infused Japanese culture, sounds, and instruments into her music.

Toshiko Akiyoshi

Often called the “Mother of the Blues,” Ma Rainey was known for her deep-throated voice and mesmerizing stage presence that drew packed audiences and sold hit records in the early twentieth century.

Gertrude “Ma” Rainey

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Stacey Abrams

Abrams is now one of the most prominent African American female politicians in the United States.

Biography

Abigail Smith Adams

Abigail Adams was an early advocate for women's rights.

Biography

Jane Addams

A progressive social reformer and activist, Jane Addams was on the frontline of the settlement house movement and was the first American woman to win a Nobel Peace Prize.

Biography

Louisa May Alcott

Famed author Louisa May Alcott created colorful relatable characters in 19th century novels.

Biography

At the age of 16, Sonita Alizadeh found out she was to be sold into marriage. Propelled to do something by this experience and the experiences of other women around her, the young Afghani woman turned to rap music.

Biography

June Almeida

June Almeida serves as a role model for determination and innovation. As the person to identify the first human coronavirus, scientists, and people all over the world, are indebted to her work.

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Asieh Amini

Journalist and poet Asieh Amini is a leading voice in the campaign to end stoning and juvenile executions in Iran.

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Maya Angelou

Poet, dancer, singer, activist, and scholar, Maya Angelou is a world-famous author. She is best known for her unique and pioneering autobiographical writing style.

Biography

Susan B. Anthony

Susan B. Anthony was a champion of the temperance, abolition, and suffrage movements.

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Corazon Aquino

Corazon “Cory” Aquino went from a shy law school student, to the first female president of the Philippines.

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Ruth Bader Ginsburg

Ruth Bader Ginsburg became the second woman, and first Jewish woman to serve on the Supreme Court.

Biography

Josephine Baker

World renowned performer, World War II spy, and activist are few of the titles used to describe Josephine Baker.

Biography

Lucille Ball

Lucille Ball was an American actress, pioneer in comedy, and businesswoman.

Biography

Penelope Barker

Penelope Barker organized the Edenton Tea Party, the first recorded women’s political demonstration in America.

Biography

Clara Barton

Clara Barton was an educator, humanitarian, and founder of the American Red Cross.

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Charlotta Spears Bass

Charlotta Spears Bass was a journalist, activist, and politician who fought for the civil rights of African Americans in the early and mid-20th century. She was also the first Black woman to run for vice president of the United States (1952).

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Daisy Bates

Bates' work with the NAACP transformed the Civil Rights Movement.

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Catharine Beecher

Catharine Esther Beecher was a nineteenth century teacher and writer who promoted equal access to education for women.

Biography

Regina Benjamin

Dr. Regina Benjamin was the 18th US Surgeon General during the Obama Administration, and the youngest person and first African-American on the AMA Board of Trustees.