Famous American Women's Rights Activists

Pearl S. Buck was an American writer and novelist known for her best-selling novel The Good Earth, which won the Pulitzer Prize in 1932. She was the first American woman to win the Nobel Prize in Literature for her vivid descriptions of peasant life in China. Buck spent many years in China as a missionary before returning to the United States and becoming a prolific writer and advocate for women's rights and racial equality. She also focused on promoting Asian and mixed-race adoption.

Mary Edwards Walker was an accomplished American abolitionist, prohibitionist, and surgeon. She earned her medical degree in 1855 and served as a surgeon during the American Civil War, becoming the first female surgeon in the US Army. Despite being captured by Confederate forces, she continued to treat the wounded and was eventually awarded the Medal of Honor for her bravery. After the war, she continued her advocacy work as a writer and lecturer, supporting the women's suffrage movement until her passing in 1919.

Fannie Lou Hamer was an influential voting and women's rights activist, community organizer, and civil rights leader. She played a key role in the Freedom Democratic Party, represented the party at the 1964 Democratic National Convention, and co-organized Mississippi's Freedom Summer. Hamer was a co-founder of the National Women's Political Caucus and devoted herself to helping African-Americans become registered voters. She faced threats and violence while fighting for civil rights and challenged segregation through legal action. Hamer's legacy continues through her posthumous induction into the National Women's Hall of Fame.

Lucretia Mott was a prominent American Quaker, abolitionist, women's rights activist, and social reformer. She became a key figure in the fight for women's rights after being excluded from the World Anti-Slavery Convention in 1840. Mott played a crucial role in organizing the Seneca Falls Convention in 1848, where the Declaration of Sentiments was developed. A talented speaker, Mott advocated for both women's rights and the rights of black people, working tirelessly to advance causes such as suffrage and education. She helped establish educational institutions and remained a central figure in reform movements until her passing in 1880.

Lucy Stone was a prominent American orator, abolitionist, and suffragist known for her tireless advocacy for women's rights. She made history by becoming the first woman from Massachusetts to earn a college degree. Stone was a key organizer of the National Women's Rights Convention and helped establish the Woman's National Loyal League to support the abolition of slavery. She co-founded the American Woman Suffrage Association, playing a crucial role in winning suffrage at the state and local levels. Stone's influential writings and speeches inspired generations of women's rights activists.

Angelina Emily Grimké Weld was an American abolitionist, political activist, and women's rights advocate known for her powerful speeches and essays promoting the end of slavery and women's rights. She gained fame through her work with abolitionist leader Theodore Dwight Weld and her public speaking engagements, despite facing opposition and hostility. Angelina drew inspiration from natural rights theory, the Constitution, Christian beliefs, and her own experiences growing up in the South. She and her sister Sarah were pioneers in advocating for women's participation in political discourse, challenging societal norms of the time.

Rebecca Latimer Felton was an influential American writer, politician, and advocate for various social reforms. She was the first woman to serve in the United States Senate, albeit for only one day. Felton was a key figure in the first-wave feminism movement, campaigning for prison reform, women's suffrage, and education reform. Despite her progressive views on certain issues, she was also known for her white supremacist beliefs and support for the violent practice of lynching African Americans under false accusations.

Carrie Chapman Catt was a prominent American women's suffrage leader who played a key role in the fight for the Nineteenth Amendment to the United States Constitution, granting women the right to vote in 1920. She served as president of the National American Woman Suffrage Association, founded the League of Women Voters and the International Woman Suffrage Alliance (later renamed the International Alliance of Women). Catt led a successful campaign to pressure Congress to pass the constitutional amendment and played a significant role in securing state ratifications.

Anna Julia Cooper was a renowned American author, educator, sociologist, speaker, Black liberation activist, and Black feminist leader. She achieved prominence as one of the most distinguished African-American scholars in U.S. history. Cooper earned her PhD from the Sorbonne, becoming the fourth African-American woman to do so. She was a significant figure in Washington, D.C.'s African-American community and was a member of the Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority. Cooper's contributions to sociology, particularly through her book "A Voice from the South," established her as a pioneer of Black feminism.

Elizabeth Jagger is a multi-talented British-American figure known for her work as an activist, model, and actress. She has made a name for herself in the entertainment industry with her captivating performances on screen and her striking presence on the runway. Jagger has used her platform to advocate for various social causes, showcasing her dedication to making a positive impact on the world. With her diverse skill set and unwavering passion, she continues to inspire and empower others through her professional endeavors.

Matilda Joslyn Gage was an American writer and activist known for her contributions to women's suffrage, Native American rights, abolitionism, and freethought. She was a prolific public speaker and writer, co-founding the National Woman's Suffrage Association and contributing to the History of Woman Suffrage. Gage founded the Woman's National Liberal Union after her views became too radical for some suffrage associations, advocating for women's self-government, civil and religious liberty, and denouncing the doctrine of women's inferiority. She served as president of this union until her death.

Sarah Weddington was a prominent American attorney, law professor, and advocate for women's rights and reproductive health. She gained national recognition for representing "Jane Roe" in the landmark Roe v. Wade case before the US Supreme Court, which led to the legalization of abortion nationwide. Additionally, Weddington served as the first female General Counsel for the US Department of Agriculture. Throughout her career, she played a significant role in shaping legal precedents and advocating for gender equality and reproductive rights.

Emily Greene Balch was an American economist, sociologist, and pacifist known for her work in academia and social activism. Balch held a position at Wellesley College while actively engaging in issues such as poverty, child labor, and immigration. She dedicated herself to settlement work to improve the lives of poor immigrants and address juvenile delinquency. Balch transitioned into the peace movement during World War I, collaborating with Jane Addams and becoming a prominent figure in the Women's International League for Peace and Freedom, winning the Nobel Peace Prize in 1946.

Mary White Ovington was a prominent figure in American history, known for her advocacy in various social causes. She was a dedicated socialist, suffragist, and journalist, using her platform to fight for equality and justice. Ovington's most notable achievement was co-founding the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), an organization committed to ending racial discrimination and promoting civil rights. Throughout her professional life, Ovington remained a steadfast champion for marginalized communities, leaving a lasting impact on the fight for social justice.

Anna Howard Shaw was a prominent figure in the women's suffrage movement in the United States. She made significant contributions to the fight for women's right to vote, advocating for equality and political empowerment. In addition to her activism, Shaw was a trailblazer in the medical field, working as a physician and becoming one of the first women ordained as a Methodist minister in the country. Her dedication to both social reform and spiritual leadership solidified her legacy as a pioneer for women's rights.

Ayaan Hirsi Ali is a prominent Somali-born Dutch-American writer, activist, and former politician known for her criticism of Islam and advocacy for the rights of Muslim women. She has authored bestselling books advocating for the reformation of Islam and founded the AHA Foundation to defend women's rights. Ali has held roles at esteemed institutions like the Hoover Institution and Harvard Kennedy School, and currently writes for UnHerd and hosts The Ayaan Hirsi Ali Podcast. She has received several awards for her commitment to free speech and ethics.

Emma Willard was an American education activist who founded the first school for women's higher education in the United States, the Troy Female Seminary. She dedicated her life to promoting education for women and traveled extensively to advocate for female education both in the United States and abroad. Willard's efforts were instrumental in advancing women's access to education, and her legacy lives on through the Emma Willard School, which was renamed in her honor in 1895.

Amelia Bloomer was a prominent American newspaper editor, women's rights advocate, and temperance supporter. She gained recognition for her strong advocacy for women's clothing reform, although she did not invent the bloomer style. Through her involvement with The Lily, she achieved a significant milestone as the first woman to own, operate, and edit a newspaper specifically for women. Bloomer's efforts in promoting gender equality and social reform had a lasting impact on the feminist movement during her time.

Maggie Kuhn was an American activist renowned for founding the Gray Panthers movement. She spearheaded efforts for nursing home reform and combating ageism, advocating for the marginalized. Kuhn dedicated her life to championing human rights, social and economic justice, global peace, and mental health awareness. Her professional journey saw her combine activism with caregiving responsibilities, demonstrating a deep commitment to fostering positive change in society.

W.A. Criswell was an influential American Baptist pastor, author, and two-term elected president of the Southern Baptist Convention. Serving as the senior pastor of the First Baptist Church of Dallas for five decades, he gained recognition for his expository biblical preaching at a popular level. Criswell played a significant role in the "Conservative Resurgence" of the late 1970s within the Southern Baptist Convention, leaving a lasting impact on the denomination through his leadership and commitment to biblical teachings.

Dorothy Dix, born Elizabeth Meriwether Gilmer, was a pioneering American journalist and columnist known for her influential advice columns on marriage. As a trailblazer in the field of advice columns, she was the highest-paid and most widely read female journalist of her time, with an estimated 60 million readers worldwide. Her column was syndicated in numerous newspapers, cementing her status as a respected figure both domestically and internationally. In addition to her writing, she actively supported women's suffrage and the ratification of the Nineteenth Amendment.

Belva Ann Lockwood was a pioneering American lawyer, politician, educator, and author actively involved in women's rights and suffrage movements. As one of the earliest female lawyers in the U.S., she achieved the groundbreaking milestone of being admitted to practice law before the U.S. Supreme Court in 1879. Lockwood later made history by running for president in 1884 and 1888 as the National Equal Rights Party candidate. Throughout her career, she advocated for gender equality in education, peace, and the Temperance movement.

Esther Peterson was a prominent American consumer and women's advocate known for her dedication to social and economic justice. She held various key positions in government agencies, including serving as the first Special Assistant for Consumer Affairs under President John F. Kennedy. Throughout her career, Peterson worked tirelessly to promote the rights of consumers and women in the workforce, advocating for fair labor standards, equal pay, and improved working conditions. Her efforts left a lasting impact on policies related to consumer protection and gender equality.

Ernestine Louise Rose was a prominent suffragist, abolitionist, and freethinker known as the "first Jewish feminist." Active from the 1830s to the 1870s, she played a significant role in the American women's rights movement alongside famous figures like Elizabeth Cady Stanton and Susan B. Anthony. Rose was a major intellectual force during the nineteenth century, credited with coining the phrase "women's rights are human rights." Her advocacy was influenced by her Jewish background, and she was posthumously recognized for her pioneering contributions to feminism.

Beate Sirota Gordon was a prominent figure in the performing arts and advocacy realms, with a career spanning work in Japan and the United States. She made significant contributions to women's rights and cultural exchange, playing a key role in writing Japan's postwar constitution which mandated gender equality. Her professional journey included roles as a translator for Douglas MacArthur, director of performing arts at the Japan Society and Asia Society, and fostering interest in Japanese art and artists in the U.S. She retired in 1991.

Maggie Gallagher is an American writer, socially conservative commentator, and activist known for her syndicated column with Universal Press Syndicate. She has authored multiple books and is the founder of the Institute for Marriage and Public Policy, a socially conservative think tank. Gallagher is also a co-founder of the National Organization for Marriage (NOM), an advocacy group that opposes same-sex marriage and legal recognition of same-sex partnerships. She has held leadership positions within NOM, including serving as president and chairman of the board.

Thomas Wentworth Higginson was an American Unitarian minister, author, abolitionist, politician, and soldier. He was actively involved in abolitionism during the 1840s and 1850s, supporting disunion and militant abolitionism. He played a significant role in the Civil War as the colonel of the 1st South Carolina Volunteers, the first federally authorized black regiment. After the war, he dedicated his efforts to advocating for the rights of freed people, women, and other marginalized groups. Additionally, he was a mentor to poet Emily Dickinson.

Catharine Alice MacKinnon is an American feminist legal scholar, activist, and author known for her expertise in international law, constitutional law, and jurisprudence. She holds the Elizabeth A. Long Professor of Law position at the University of Michigan Law School and is a James Barr Ames Visiting Professor of Law at Harvard Law School. MacKinnon's work focuses on women's rights and issues of sexual abuse and exploitation, particularly in areas such as sexual harassment, rape, prostitution, sex trafficking, and pornography. She has authored numerous influential books on these topics, including "Sexual Harassment of Working Women" and "Toward a Feminist Theory of the State."

Rachel Dolezal is a former college instructor and activist known for presenting herself as a black woman despite being born to white parents. She served as the president of the NAACP chapter in Spokane, Washington, and was involved in controversy over her racial identity. Dolezal was dismissed from her position as an instructor in Africana studies at Eastern Washington University and was removed from her post as chair of the Police Ombudsman Commission in Spokane due to a pattern of misconduct.

Alice Freeman Palmer was a prominent American educator known for her advocacy for women's college education. She served as the president of Wellesley College and later became the dean of women at the University of Chicago. She worked tirelessly to improve opportunities for women to attend college through various initiatives such as improved college preparation, sponsorship, and public lectures. Palmer co-founded and led the Association of Collegiate Alumnae, later known as the American Association of University Women. She was a trailblazer in promoting women's education and empowerment in the 19th century.

Nora Stanton Blatch Barney was a pioneering civil engineer and suffragist in the United States. She was one of the first women in the country to graduate with an engineering degree. Despite societal expectations, she chose to pursue a career in engineering rather than conforming to traditional roles. Barney made significant contributions to the field of engineering, breaking barriers and paving the way for future generations of women in the industry. Her professional achievements and advocacy for women's rights have left a lasting impact on the engineering community.

Julia Lathrop was a pioneering American social reformer known for her significant contributions to education, social policy, and children's welfare. Serving as the director of the United States Children's Bureau from 1912 to 1922, she made history as the first woman to lead a federal bureau in the United States. Lathrop dedicated her career to advocating for the well-being of children, implementing reforms to improve their living conditions and access to education, leaving a lasting impact on social policy and welfare initiatives.

Arabella Mansfield was a trailblazing figure in the legal profession, becoming the first female lawyer in the United States in 1869 by challenging Iowa's male-only bar exam. Her success led to the amendment of licensing statutes in Iowa, paving the way for women and minorities in the legal field. Mansfield focused on her career as an educator and administrator, teaching at Iowa Wesleyan College and DePauw University. She also held leadership positions at DePauw University, serving as dean of two schools in the 1890s.

Harriot Stanton Blatch was a prominent American writer and suffragist known for her significant contributions to the women's rights movement. She played a key role in organizing suffrage campaigns and advocating for women's right to vote. Blatch was a skilled writer who effectively communicated the importance of gender equality and social reform through her works. Her dedication to advancing women's rights and her strategic leadership in the suffrage movement left a lasting impact on the fight for gender equality in the United States.

Lydia Moss Bradley was a successful bank president and renowned philanthropist known for her significant contributions to society. She founded Bradley Polytechnic Institute in Peoria, Illinois, in 1897, showcasing her dedication to education and community development. Her professional life was marked by her visionary leadership in the banking industry and her commitment to philanthropic endeavors, leaving a lasting impact through her charitable works. Bradley's legacy continues to inspire others to make a positive difference in the world.

Sophonisba Preston Breckinridge was a pioneering American activist and social reformer known for her groundbreaking achievements in higher education. She was the first woman to earn a Ph.D. in political science and economics, as well as the J.D. at the University of Chicago. Breckinridge also made history by becoming the first woman to pass the Kentucky bar exam. She played a key role in establishing social work as an academic professional discipline and degree, and represented the U.S. government at an international conference during her distinguished career.

Abby Johnson is an American anti-abortion activist and former Planned Parenthood clinic director. She gained recognition for resigning from Planned Parenthood in 2009 after witnessing an abortion on ultrasound. Johnson's account and motivations for her conversion have faced scrutiny from investigative reporters due to discrepancies with medical records. Her memoir, "Unplanned," was adapted into a 2019 film of the same name, further highlighting her experiences and beliefs surrounding abortion.

Esther Hobart Morris was the first woman justice of the peace in the United States. She served in South Pass City, Wyoming, beginning in 1870 for nearly 9 months. Appointed after a predecessor's resignation over women's suffrage, Morris played a significant role in Wyoming's suffrage amendment. While some dispute her leadership in the legislation, she credited William H. Bright for the bill. Morris's professional legacy is marked by her groundbreaking tenure as a justice of the peace and her involvement in the suffrage movement.

Rosalie Barrow Edge was a prominent American environmentalist and suffragist known for her fierce advocacy for wildlife preservation. In 1929, she founded the Emergency Conservation Committee to challenge the conservation establishment and promote species preservation. Edge established Hawk Mountain Sanctuary in 1934, the world's first preserve for birds of prey. Regarded as the most militant conservationist of her time, she often clashed with leaders of the Audubon Society over conservation strategies. Her dedication and uncompromising nature earned her the reputation of being a fearless and passionate advocate for environmental causes.

Olympia Brown was a pioneering American minister and suffragist who made history as the first woman to be ordained as clergy with the approval of her denomination. Throughout her career, she passionately advocated for women's rights and played a significant role in the suffrage movement, being among the select few first-generation suffragists who were able to vote following the passage of the Nineteenth Amendment. Brown's dedication to gender equality and her groundbreaking achievements continue to inspire generations of women striving for social and political change.

Phoebe Palmer was a Methodist evangelist and writer known for promoting the doctrine of Christian perfection. She played a significant role in the Holiness movement within Methodist Christianity, being considered one of its founders. Palmer's professional life was dedicated to spreading the message of spiritual perfection and advocating for a life of holiness and purity. Through her writing and evangelism, she inspired many to pursue a deeper relationship with God and strive for moral excellence in their lives.

Julia Marlowe was a renowned English-born American actress celebrated for her exceptional portrayals of characters in William Shakespeare's plays. She captivated audiences with her remarkable interpretations and deep understanding of Shakespearean works, establishing herself as a leading figure in the theatrical world. Marlowe's talent and dedication to her craft earned her widespread acclaim and recognition, solidifying her legacy as one of the most skilled and influential actresses of her time.

Madeline McDowell Breckinridge was a prominent American leader of the women's suffrage movement in Kentucky. She championed women's rights and played a key role in securing the right to vote for women in Kentucky. Breckinridge was also a driving force behind progressive reforms in education, child labor laws, and public health initiatives. She founded various civic organizations, including the Kentucky Association for the Prevention and Treatment of Tuberculosis. Breckinridge's significant contributions earned her the title of the most influential woman in Kentucky and a place among the Kentucky Women Remembered.

Jamila Wideman is an American lawyer, activist, and former professional basketball player. After her successful career in basketball, she transitioned to law and activism, where she has made significant contributions. Wideman's legal work focuses on social justice issues, advocating for marginalized communities and working towards systemic change. As an activist, she has been involved in various initiatives to promote equality and equity. Wideman's professional journey reflects her commitment to making a positive impact and fighting for a more just society.

Mary Ashton Livermore was a prominent American journalist, abolitionist, and advocate for women's rights. She authored several printed volumes, including works on domestic life, women's roles, and her own experiences during the Civil War. Livermore played a significant role in the United States Sanitary Commission during the Civil War, organizing auxiliary societies and contributing to relief efforts. Post-war, she championed women's suffrage through her work as an editor and lecturer, traveling extensively to speak on behalf of women's rights and temperance movements.

Elizabeth Stuart Phelps Ward was an early feminist American author and intellectual who challenged traditional Christian beliefs of the afterlife, women's roles in marriage, and advocated for clothing reform. She published numerous works challenging societal norms, including her novel "The Gates Ajar," which depicted a comforting afterlife. Phelps Ward also broke conventions by marrying a man younger than her, and urged women to burn their corsets. She focused on feminine ideals, women's financial independence, and depicted women succeeding in nontraditional careers like physicians and artists. Additionally, she became active in the animal rights movement, advocating against vivisection through her novel "Trixy."

Paulina Kellogg Wright Davis was a prominent figure in American history as an abolitionist, suffragist, and educator. She played a crucial role in advancing women's rights by co-founding the New England Woman Suffrage Association. Through her activism, Davis tirelessly advocated for the rights of women and fought against slavery. Her dedication and leadership in the suffrage movement left a lasting impact, inspiring future generations to continue the fight for gender equality and social justice.

Isabella Beecher Hooker was a prominent figure in the American suffragist movement, known for her leadership, public speaking skills, and dedication to social activism. She was a passionate advocate for women's rights, fighting for gender equality and the right to vote. Hooker was an influential lecturer, using her platform to raise awareness and inspire others to join the cause. Her professional life was characterized by her tireless efforts to advance the rights and opportunities of women in society, leaving a lasting impact on the suffragist movement.

Charlotte Anita Whitney, known as "Anita Whitney," was a prominent American women's rights activist, suffragist, and political organizer in California. She played a significant role in the early Communist Labor Party of America and Communist Party USA. Whitney gained national attention as the defendant in the 1927 California criminal syndicalism trial, Whitney v. California, where the U.S. Supreme Court's ruling set a precedent for the protection of free speech rights. Her professional legacy reflects a commitment to social justice and advocacy for marginalized communities.

Anne Henrietta Martin was a prominent suffragist, pacifist, and author known for her influential contributions to the women's rights movement in Nevada and beyond. She led efforts to secure voting rights for women in Nevada and was active in the suffrage movement in England. Martin was the first woman to run for the United States Senate, serving as the national chairman of the National Woman's Party. She also held academic positions, including as the first head of the department of history at the University of Nevada.

Annie Nathan Meyer was a prominent American author and advocate for women's higher education. She played a crucial role in founding Barnard College, promoting opportunities for women in academia. Meyer was also known for her work as an anti-suffragist, expressing her views on women's rights and suffrage. Throughout her career, she contributed significantly to the advancement of educational opportunities for women and made a lasting impact on the field of higher education in the United States.

Josephine St. Pierre Ruffin was a trailblazing figure in the fight for civil rights and women's suffrage. As a publisher, journalist, and editor of the Woman's Era, the first national newspaper for African American women, she used her platform to advocate for equality and social justice. Ruffin was a prominent abolitionist and played a key role in organizing civil rights movements. Her dedication to empowering marginalized communities and advancing women's rights made her a respected leader in the fight for social change.

Louise Little was a dedicated and passionate activist who fought tirelessly for civil rights and social justice. She was a strong advocate for the rights of African Americans, working to combat racial discrimination and inequality. Louise was actively involved in community organizing and was known for her fearless determination in challenging systemic racism. Her commitment to empowering marginalized communities and fighting for equality left a lasting impact on the civil rights movement.

Marjorie Shostak was an American anthropologist known for her work with the !Kung San people of the Kalahari desert. Despite lacking a formal degree in anthropology, she conducted extensive fieldwork and gained recognition for her detailed accounts of the lives of women in this hunter-gatherer society. Shostak's research shed light on gender roles, relationships, and the unique cultural practices of the !Kung San people. Her work continues to be influential in the field of anthropology, particularly in the study of gender and indigenous societies.

Fannie Barrier Williams was a prominent American educator, civil rights, and women's rights activist. She made history by becoming the first black woman to gain membership to the Chicago Woman's Club. Her advocacy for racial equality was highlighted by her successful efforts to have black people represented on the Board of Control of the World's Columbian Exposition in 1893. In addition to her activism, Williams was a talented musician, portraitist, and linguist, showcasing her diverse skills and passions throughout her professional life.

Abby Kelley Foster was an American abolitionist and radical social reformer known for her activism from the 1830s to 1870s. She played a significant role as a fundraiser, lecturer, and committee organizer for the American Anti-Slavery Society, working closely with influential figures like William Lloyd Garrison. Foster married fellow abolitionist Stephen Symonds Foster and together they advocated for equal rights for women and enslaved Africans. Her contributions to the abolitionist movement and fight for social justice have left a lasting legacy, with her former home in Worcester, Massachusetts being designated a National Historic Landmark.

Clar Weah is a Jamaican-American businesswoman, philanthropist, and advocate who served as the First Lady of Liberia from 2018 to 2024. She is known for her dedication to social causes and established the Clar Hope Foundation in 2018 to uplift the underprivileged in Liberia. Through her foundation, she has worked towards improving the livelihoods of the least privileged individuals in the country. Clar's professional life is marked by her commitment to philanthropy and advocacy for social change.

Willie Beatrice Barrow was a prominent American civil rights activist and minister known for her impactful work in advancing social justice. She co-founded Operation PUSH (later known as Operation Breadbasket) alongside Rev. Jesse Jackson, playing a significant role in the organization's mission. In 1984, she made history by becoming the first woman to serve as the executive director of a civil rights organization, further solidifying her legacy in the fight for equality. Barrow's dedication and leadership left a lasting impact on the civil rights movement.

Jessie Daniel Ames was a prominent suffragist and civil rights leader known for her efforts in creating the anti-lynching movement in the American South. She courageously spoke out against the lynching of African Americans, challenging prevailing attitudes and leading organized protests. Despite facing personal risks, Ames mobilized Southern white women to oppose lynching, collecting thousands of signatures and contributing to a significant decline in these brutal murders through her advocacy work in the 1930s and 1940s.

Mary Coffin Ware Dennett was a prominent American women's rights activist, pacifist, and advocate for homeopathy. She was a trailblazer in the fields of birth control, sex education, and women's suffrage. Dennett co-founded the National Birth Control League and the Voluntary Parenthood League, and played a key role in the National American Women's Suffrage Association. Her work also extended to founding the Twilight Sleep Association and writing influential pamphlets on sex education and birth control. Dennett's legal battle against the Comstock laws was a pivotal moment in the fight for reproductive rights.

Barbara Seaman was a prominent American author, feminist activist, and journalist known for her significant contributions to the women's health movement. She played a crucial role in advocating for women's health rights and raising awareness about issues such as the dangers of certain medications and the importance of informed consent in medical treatments. Through her writing and activism, Seaman empowered women to take charge of their own health decisions and challenged traditional medical practices that often marginalized or ignored women's needs.

Harriot Kezia Hunt was an American physician and prominent women's rights activist. She played a significant role in advocating for women's rights and gender equality. Hunt was a pioneering figure in the medical field, breaking barriers as a female physician in the 19th century. She actively participated in the first National Women's Rights Conventions, using her platform to speak out against gender discrimination and advocate for greater opportunities for women in education and professional spheres. Hunt's contributions continue to inspire future generations in the fight for gender equality.

Emmeline B. Wells was a prominent American journalist, editor, poet, and women's rights advocate. She served as the fifth Relief Society General President of the LDS Church and was actively involved in the suffrage movement, representing Utah at national conventions. Wells was the editor of the Woman's Exponent for 37 years and played a key role in advancing women's rights through her writings and advocacy work. She was known for her dedication to empowering women and promoting gender equality in society.

Ashley Christensen is a renowned American chef, restaurateur, author, and culinary figure based in Raleigh, North Carolina. As the chef and proprietor of AC Restaurants, she oversees a hospitality group that includes popular establishments such as Poole's Diner, Fox Liquor Bar, Beasley's Chicken + Honey, Death & Taxes, Poole'side Pies, and AC Events. With two James Beard Awards to her name, Christensen is celebrated for her significant contributions to Raleigh's food scene, solidifying her reputation as a culinary trailblazer and influencer.

Mary Putnam Jacobi was a pioneering English-American physician, teacher, scientist, writer, and suffragist. She made significant contributions to the field of medicine by being the first woman admitted to study medicine at the University of Paris and the first woman to graduate from a pharmacy college in the United States. Jacobi dedicated her career to practicing medicine, teaching, writing, and advocating for women's rights, particularly in the realm of medical education. Her scientific work challenging misconceptions about women's abilities furthered the fight for women's educational opportunities. She was also a prominent member of various organizations focused on women's rights and was posthumously honored with an induction into the National Women's Hall of Fame.

Brittany Maynard was an American activist known for her advocacy of assisted suicide for the terminally ill. She gained recognition for her decision to end her own life on her own terms due to her terminal illness. Maynard's stance on the issue sparked national debate and brought attention to the importance of end-of-life care and individual choice. Through her activism, she aimed to raise awareness and promote the legalization of assisted suicide for those facing similar circumstances.