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Grace Chisholm Young was an English mathematician who made significant contributions to mathematics and played a vital role in advancing women’s acceptance in academia. She became the first person to attain a First-class degree at both Oxford and Cambridge Universities in any subject. Her dedication to the advancement of women’s education and empowerment has had a lasting impact on the field of mathematics.
Lady Jane Grey, also known as the “Nine Days’ Queen,” briefly claimed the throne of England and Ireland in 1553. Born into a prominent family, Jane received an exceptional education, making her one of the most learned young women of her time. Despite her short reign and untimely death, Jane’s influence on English history and women’s history is significant.
Mary Anning was an English fossil collector and palaeontologist who made groundbreaking discoveries in Jurassic marine fossil beds. Her findings revolutionized scientific thinking about prehistoric life and the Earth’s history. Born into a working-class family, Mary’s dedication to fossil hunting and her remarkable skill led her to become one of the most important figures in the field. Despite facing obstacles as a woman in science, her legacy of resilience and scientific contributions continue to inspire generations.
Keira Fae Walsh was born on April 8, 1997, in Rochdale, England, to Peter and Tracy Walsh. Raised in the rural suburb of Syke, she was introduced to football by her father at a young age. From the age of five, Walsh would spend hours practicing on the field across from her house, honing her skills and developing a deep passion for the sport.
Francesca “Fran” Kirby, born on June 29, 1993, is an English professional footballer renowned for her exceptional skills as an attacking midfielder. She represents Chelsea Football Club as well as the England national team. Born and raised in Reading, Kirby’s talent and determination have propelled her to the top of women’s football, making her a true icon in the sport.
Mary, Queen of Scots (1542-1587) became Queen of Scotland at just six days old after the death of her father. She married Francis, the Dauphin of France and later returned to Scotland. Mary’s reign was marked by religious and political turmoil, and she faced opposition from influential figures like John Knox. After a tumultuous marriage, imprisonment, and involvement in plots, Mary was executed at Fotheringhay Castle, becoming a martyr for Catholic supporters.
Margaret Alphonsi, born in 1983 in Lewisham, south London, became one of the most celebrated figures in women’s rugby, overcoming adversity and leaving an indelible mark on the sport. Her remarkable achievements were recognized with awards such as Sunday Times Sportswoman of the Year and induction into the World Rugby Hall of Fame. Alphonsi continues to make a positive impact through coaching and her involvement in charitable organizations.
Alice D. Cooper is a pioneer of women’s rugby union, in England and internationally. She was born in Edinburgh, Scotland, and her passion for the sport began in 1986 when she met two members of the Richmond Women’s rugby team during a night out.
Emma Charlotte Duerre Watson is an English actress, model, and activist. Known for her roles in both blockbusters and independent films, as well as for her women’s rights work, she has become a prominent figure in the entertainment industry. Watson was born in Paris, France, to lawyer parents Jacqueline Luesby and Chris Watson. She has a younger brother named Alex. At the age of five, her parents divorced, and she moved to England with her mother and brother. Growing up, Watson developed a passion for acting and took part in various school plays. She attended the Dragon School, an esteemed preparatory school in Oxford, England. In her pursuit of acting, Watson enrolled in the Oxford branch of Stagecoach Theatre Arts, where she honed her skills and gained confidence in her craft. She showcased her talent early on when she auditioned for the role of Hermione Granger in the film adaptation of J.K. Rowling’s best-selling book series, Harry Potter. Watson’s audition was a success, and she secured the role that would become her breakthrough.
Claire Taylor, born Samantha Claire Taylor MBE on September 25, 1975, is a former cricketer who made a significant impact on the sport. Representing England for over 150 matches from 1998 to 2011, she left an indelible mark on women’s cricket. A talented top-order batter, Taylor was the first woman to be named a Wisden Cricketer of the Year, a testament to her exceptional skills and contributions to the game.
Enid Bakewell MBE (née Turton; born 16 December 1940) is an English cricket player who made a significant impact on the game during her career. She played for the English women’s cricket team in 12 Tests between 1968 and 1979, as well as in 23 one-day international matches. Touted as one of the greatest all-rounders in the history of the English women’s game, Bakewell’s performances showcased her exceptional skills both with the bat and ball.
Barbara Buttrick, aka “Battling Barbara,” was born on December 3, 1929, in Cottingham, East Riding of Yorkshire, England. She became a trailblazer in women’s professional boxing, earning the world champion title in the 1940s and 1950s. Her petite stature didn’t hinder her skill and determination, and she fought her way to become the unbeaten flyweight (112) and bantamweight (118) champion from 1950 to 1960. Buttrick’s tenacity and groundbreaking performances played a crucial role in shaping women’s boxing as a recognized sport.
Elizabeth Heyrick, an English philanthropist and anti-slavery campaigner, was a prominent activist in the early 19th century. Challenging the gradualist approach of many abolitionist leaders, Heyrick advocated for immediate emancipation of slaves. Her pamphlet, “Immediate, not Gradual Abolition,” had a profound impact on the movement and called for a more assertive stance against slavery. Heyrick also played a vital role in raising public awareness and promoting economic pressure to dismantle the institution of slavery. Her dedication and strategic activism left a lasting legacy on the British abolitionist movement.
Lucy Bronze, born in 1991, is a renowned professional footballer from England. She has made a significant impact on women’s football and is recognized as one of the best players in the sport’s history. Bronze’s journey began in her early childhood, playing with her brother and friends in Portugal. Despite facing challenges, she displayed exceptional talent and went on to represent England in major tournaments. Her achievements, including winning multiple domestic titles and individual awards, have solidified her place as a role model for aspiring female footballers.
Mary Read was an English pirate who defied societal norms during the “Golden Age of Piracy” in the 18th century. Born in 1685, she grew up in unconventional circumstances, dressed as a boy, and worked on ships and in the military. Mary’s life took an adventurous turn when she became a member of Calico Jack’s pirate crew, alongside fellow pirate Anne Bonny. Their success, however, was short-lived as they were apprehended and Mary’s life tragically ended in 1721. Despite her premature death, Mary Read’s life serves as an inspiration to women who challenge gender expectations.
Æthelflæd, Lady of the Mercians, played a major role in fighting off Viking attacks in the 890s. After her husband’s death, she became the Lady of the Mercians and ruled Mercia independently. Æthelflæd embarked on an ambitious project of fortifying towns throughout Mercia and achieved her greatest triumph by capturing Derby from the Vikings. Her legacy as a powerful and influential ruler in a time of great turmoil remains remarkable.
Charlotte de Berry, a legendary pirate captain, is said to have been born in 1636 in England. While the historical evidence for her existence is scarce, her story of daring adventures and tragic events has captured the imagination and become a popular legend in pirate lore. Whether fact or fiction, Charlotte de Berry’s tale continues to fascinate and intrigue.