Biographies

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!

Biography

Stacey Abrams

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

Toshiko Akiyoshi

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

Sonita Alizadeh

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.
READ MORE
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.
READ MORE
Biography

Asieh Amini

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

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.
READ MORE
Biography

Corazon Aquino

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

Josephine Baker

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

Penelope Barker

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

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).
READ MORE
Biography

Catharine Beecher

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

Regina Benjamin

Dr. Regina Benjamin is a family physician who served as the 18th US Surgeon General during the Obama Administration, and was the youngest person and first African American admitted to the American Medical Association’s Board of Trustees.
READ MORE