History That's More Than 2-Dimensional.

Content Warning: None

Nwanyeruwa (Early 20th century)

Instigator (and Peacekeeper) of the Igbo Women's War

Instigated a massive "women's war" against British taxation, the effect of which was one part protest movement, one part comedy roast, and one part block party.

Pope Joan (9th century)

The Pope Who Gave Birth

This pope was largely assumed to be male until she gave birth in the midst of a procession - and largely assumed to be factual until the 13th century.

Mary Bowser (19th century)

The Spy in the Confederate White House

Brilliant undercover spy who posed as a slave to spy on – and attempt to burn down – the Confederate White House.

The Valiant Ladies of Potosi (17th century)

Teen Vigilantes of the 1600s

Eustaquia de Souza and Ana Lezama de Urinza, two sword-and-gun-toting lesbian teen vigilantes – 17th century Bolivia’s answer to Batman.

Yaa Asantewaa (c.1830-1921)

Queen Mother of the Golden Stool

As an old woman, led an incredibly successful rebellion against British colonialism, known as The War of the Golden Stool, or the Yaa Asantewaa War.

Trung Trac and Trung Nhi (1st century)

The Sisters Who Stomped China

Sisters who led an army on elephant-back to overthrow oppressive Chinese rule and establish a short-lived Vietnamese kingdom.

Elizabeth Bisland (1861-1929)

The Journalist Who Raced Around the World in 80 Days

Rose from poverty to become a respected journalist who raced Nellie Bly around the world.

Nellie Bly (1864-1922)

The Queen of Expose Journalism

Daring journalist who infiltrated insane asylums, exposed slavery rings, and raced around the world in under 80 days.

Moll Cutpurse (1582-1659)

London's Queen of Thieves

Cross-dressing Queen of Thieves who flouted social norms and had plays written about her.

Matilda of Tuscany (1046-1115)

Defender of the Pope

Fiery defender of the pope who made kings kneel before her.