WOMEN HISTORY

Report Writing

Group: “M”
Group Members: Syeda Rabia Ali
Hafsa Miraj Uddin
Sahiba Shafi
Tehreem Latif
Submitted to : Dr.Humera Naz
Course: Historiography
Department: History | Year : 3rd
 WOMEN HISTORY
INTRODCTION:
Group Members: [GIVEN BY]: DR.HUMERA NAZ
 [SYEDA RABIA ALI]:
 [SAHIBA SHAFI]:
 [HAFSA MIRAJUDDIN]:
 [TEHREEM LATIF]:
In this report, we embark on a journey through the annals of history, uncovering the often-neglected
narratives of women's contributions, struggles, and achievements. Our exploration spans across
regions and cultures, aiming to celebrate diversity and provide a nuanced understanding of women's
historical roles.
Women's history is a compelling tapestry woven with stories of resilience, innovation, and courage.
For centuries, women have played pivotal roles in shaping societies, yet their voices and experiences
have frequently been marginalized or overlooked in traditional historical accounts. This report seeks
to rectify this historical imbalance by shining a spotlight on the remarkable women who have left
indelible marks on history.

DEFINITION:
“Women's history is the study of the role that women have played in history and the methods required
to do so.”
Historian Linda K. Kerber in her influential essay "Separate Spheres, Female Worlds, Woman's Place:
The Rhetoric of Women's History" (1976). Kerber defines women's history as follows:
"Women's history is the study of the ways in which women have been centrally involved in the
creation and elaboration of society, as well as the ways in which they have been excluded from, or
confined in, the institutions of society." ~ Linda K.
Kerber
INTRODUCTION:
Women history is an another approach of history.Women's history is the study of women's
contributions, experiences, and perspectives throughout history. It aims to uncover and analyze the
roles and achievements of women that have often been overlooked or marginalized in traditional
historical narratives.
Women have always been part of history. But for centuries, their participation in it was overlooked:
Early history texts often excluded women altogether, aside from accounts of powerful women like
queens. Historians—who were almost entirely men—often saw the past through the lens of the “great
man” theory, which holds that history is largely shaped by male heroes and their struggles.
In ancient times ,The Roman, Soranas, believed that women were divinely appointed to care for
women and children. His criteria for practitioners included literacy, anatomic understanding, a sense
of patient responsibility, and ethical concerns.
In the 19th century, women’s history would have been inconceivable, because “history” was so
closely identified with war, diplomacy, and high politics—from all of which women were virtually
excluded. Although there had been notable queens and regents—such as Elizabeth I of England,
Catherine de Medici of France, Catherine the Great of Russia, and Christina of Sweden—their gender
was considered chiefly when it came to forming marriage alliances or bearing royal heirs. Inevitably,
the ambition to write history “from the bottom up” and to bring into focus those marginalized by
previous historiography inspired the creation of women’s history.
WOMEN HISTORY BECOMES AN ACADEMIC DISCIPLINE:
Women's history emerged as a distinct field of study in the late 1960s and early 1970s, coinciding
with the rise of the feminist movement. Historically, mainstream historical accounts had largely
focused on men's actions and experiences, neglecting the roles and contributions of women. That
changed in the 20th century, with the birth of women’s history as an academic discipline, a push to
recognize the achievements of women—and a movement to ensure women had equal access to the
academic institutions where their history might be taught.
The introduction of women's history as a course within academic institutions is often attributed to
pioneering scholars who advocated for the inclusion of women's experiences and perspectives in the
study of history. While there is no single individual credited with introducing women's history as a
course, several key figures played significant roles in promoting its recognition within academia.
One notable figure in this regard is Gerda Lerner, an influential feminist historian often referred to as
the "mother" of women's history in the United States. Lerner played a crucial role in establishing
women's history as an academic discipline through her scholarship, activism, and advocacy. In 1972,
she founded the first graduate program in women's history at Sarah Lawrence College, which offered
courses specifically focused on women's experiences throughout history.
“In my courses, the teachers told me about a world in which ostensibly one-half the human race is
doing everything significant and the other half doesn’t exist,” Gerda Lerner, a historian at Sarah
Lawrence College in Yonkers, New York, told the Chicago Tribune in 1993. “This is garbage, this is
not the world I have experienced.”
Additionally, other scholars and activists also contributed to the development of women's history as a
field of study. Their research and writings challenged traditional historical narratives and helped to
pave the way for the inclusion of women's history within the curriculum of history departments in
universities.Overall, the introduction of women's history as a course within academic institutions was
the result of the concerted efforts of numerous scholars, activists, and educators who recognized the
importance of highlighting women's contributions to history and advocating for their inclusion in
mainstream historical discourse.

CASE STUDY AND FEDERAL RECOGNITION OF WOMEN HISTORY:

As a graduate of one of the newly founded women’s studies programs at California’s Sonoma State
University in the 1970s, educator Molly Murphy MacGregor asked the same question as Lerner and
others. Administrators at the high school where she taught had tried to pressure her to cancel a class
on women’s history, arguing that there was simply not enough material to fill six weeks of instruction.
Textbooks that did cover basic women’s history buried it—for example, one text said Congress gave
women the right to vote in 1920 without mentioning the work of pioneering suffragists who fought for
that civil right.
Women's Suffrage Movement: The women's suffrage movement, advocating for women's right to
vote, began in the mid-19th century and continued through the early 20th century. Notable events
include the Seneca Falls Convention in 1848, the formation of the National American Woman
Suffrage Association (NAWSA) in 1890, and the passage of the 19th Amendment to the U.S.
Constitution in 1920. But the women that did pioneering work in the suffragists movement were
neglected . However, one of the earliest and well known leaders of the women’s suffrage movement
was Susan B.Anthony in the United States . Along with Elizabeth Cady Stanton.
Formation of Women's Clubs and Organizations: In the late 19th and early 20th centuries,
women's clubs and organizations played a crucial role in advocating for women's rights and
promoting women's history. The General Federation of Women's Clubs (GFWC) was founded in
1890, providing a platform for women to engage in social and political activism.
Emergence of Feminist Scholarship: In the mid-20th century, feminist scholars began to challenge
traditional historical narratives and bring attention to women's experiences and contributions. The
publication of works such as "A Vindication of the Rights of Woman" by Mary Wollstonecraft in 1792
and "The Second Sex" by Simone de Beauvoir in 1949 laid the groundwork for feminist thought and
scholarship.
Second Wave Feminism: The second wave feminist movement, which emerged in the 1960s and
1970s, sparked renewed interest in women's history and activism. Feminist scholars such as Gerda
Lerner and Joan Kelly advocated for the inclusion of women's perspectives in historical research and
curriculum.

Founding of Women's History Organizations: In the 1960s and 1970s, organizations dedicated
to women's history were established, providing platforms for research, education, and advocacy. The
Berkshire Conference of Women Historians was founded in 1930, followed by the American
Association for Women in Education in 1972 and the National Women's History Project in 1980.

The First Women History Week : In the late 1970s, MacGregor put together a slideshow on the
history of American women in areas like politics, environmental activism, and the abolitionist
movement . But when MacGregor learned that students rarely checked out or were assigned the tiny
assortment of women’s history books available in local elementary schools, she took action by joining
the Sonoma County Commission on the Status of Women. In response, they proposed that the
community host a women’s history week. Timed to intersect with International Women’s Day, a
global celebration of women held annually on March 8, the first-ever Women’s History Week kicked
off with a parade, a presentation, and distribution of curriculum materials for local schools.

Federal recognition of Women History :

As it equipped teachers across the nation with materials and curricula on women’s historical
achievements, the NWHP also began to lobby the federal government to recognize women’s history.
Their first victory came in 1980, when President Jimmy Carter declared the first National Women’s
History Week from March 2 to 8. “Understanding the true history of our country will help us to
comprehend the need for full equality under the law for all our people,” he said in an address. al
recognition of Women History.
INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY : 08 MARCH :
International Women’s Day, observed annually on March 8, is a global celebration honoring women’s
social, economic, cultural, and political achievements. It serves as a call to action for gender equality
and women’s empowerment worldwide.

The history of International Women’s Day can be traced back to the early 20th century, emerging from
labor movements and socialist activities. During the 1910 International Women’s Conference,
women’s advocate and communist Clara Zetkin proposed the concept of a day dedicated to women’s
rights, and the first official International Women’s Day was celebrated on March 19, 1911, in Austria,
Denmark, Germany, and Switzerland. Over the years, the day evolved into a global occasion, with
themes varying annually to address contemporary women’s issues.

International Women’s Day aims to raise awareness about gender inequality, highlight women’s
achievements, and promote gender parity. The day is marked by various events, discussions, and
initiatives across the globe, emphasizing the ongoing efforts to create a more inclusive and equitable
world for women.

In some parts of the world, International Women’s Day is still closely tied to its political origins and is
marked by protests for social change. In other countries, International Women’s Day is more cultural
than political and focuses broadly on celebrating womanhood.

PIONEERS OF WOMEN HISTORY:

Women Pioneers & Trailblazers
 Marie Curie (1867-1934): A physicist and chemist, Marie Curie was the first woman to win
a Nobel Prize and remains the only person to win Nobel Prizes in two different scientific
fields (Physics in 1903 and Chemistry in 1911).
 Ada Lovelace (1815-1852): Often regarded as the world's first computer programmer, Ada
Lovelace collaborated with Charles Babbage on his Analytical Engine, envisioning its
potential beyond mere calculations to include general computing.
 Grace Hopper (1906-1992): A computer scientist and United States Navy rear admiral,
Grace Hopper played a vital role in developing the COBOL programming language and is
often called the "queen of software."
 Katherine Johnson (1918-2020): A mathematician at NASA, Katherine Johnson's
calculations were crucial for the success of the first crewed spaceflights. Her work was
pivotal in the early years of the U.S. space program.
 Mae Jemison (born 1956): An astronaut, physician, and engineer, Mae Jemison became the
first African American woman to travel in space when she flew aboard the Space Shuttle
Endeavour in 1992.
 Shirley Ann Jackson (born 1946): A theoretical physicist and the first African American
woman to earn a doctorate from MIT, Shirley Ann Jackson has made significant contributions
to the field of physics and has held leadership roles in academia and industry, including as the
president of Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute.

Influential Women Leaders

 Eleanor Roosevelt (1884-1962): As the longest-serving First Lady of the United States,
Eleanor Roosevelt was a prominent advocate for civil rights, women's rights, and
humanitarian causes. Her influence extended beyond her time in the White House, making her
a key figure in shaping the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
 Indira Gandhi (1917-1984): The first and, to date, only female Prime Minister of India,
Indira Gandhi served multiple terms and played a crucial role in shaping the nation's political
landscape. Her leadership was marked by both accomplishments and controversies.
 Malala Yousafzai (born 1997): A Pakistani education activist, Malala Yousafzai became the
youngest-ever recipient of the Nobel Prize. She advocates for girls' education globally and has
shown immense resilience and courage in the face of adversity.
 Rigoberta Menchú (born 1959): An indigenous K'iche' Maya woman from Guatemala,
Rigoberta Menchú is a Nobel Peace Prize laureate and an activist for indigenous rights and
social justice. Her advocacy work has significantly impacted the recognition of indigenous
cultures.
 Golda Meir (1898-1978): Golda Meir was the fourth Prime Minister of Israel and one of the
world's first female heads of government. Known as the "Iron Lady" of Israeli politics, she
played a pivotal role in the early years of the state of Israel.
  Wangari Maathai (1940-2011): An environmental and political activist from Kenya,
Wangari Maathai founded the Green Belt Movement, advocating for environmental
conservation, women's rights, and democracy. She was the first African woman to receive the
Nobel Peace Prize.

Famous Women Artists, Authors, Actresses and Musicians

These are a few of the innumerable women who have made significant contributions to the world of
entertainment and the arts, bringing diverse perspectives and stories to audiences worldwide.

 Frida Kahlo (1907-1954): A Mexican painter known for her surreal and symbolic self-
portraits, Frida Kahlo is celebrated for her unique artistic style and her exploration of identity,
gender, and postcolonialism in her work.
 Georgia O'Keeffe (1887-1986): An American modernist artist, Georgia O'Keeffe is
renowned for her paintings of enlarged flowers, New York skyscrapers, and New Mexico
landscapes. Her work played a pivotal role in the development of American modernism.
 Jane Austen (1775-1817): An English novelist known for her keen observations of social
manners and relationships, Jane Austen's works, including "Pride and Prejudice" and "Sense
and Sensibility," are considered classics of English literature.
 Virginia Woolf (1882-1941): A pioneering modernist writer, Virginia Woolf made significant
contributions to literature with her novels, essays, and innovative narrative techniques. Her
notable works include "Mrs. Dalloway" and "To the Lighthouse."
 Katharine Hepburn (1907-2003): A four-time Academy Award-winning actress, Katharine
Hepburn is considered one of the greatest actresses in American cinema history. Her career
spanned over six decades, and she was known for her independent and strong-willed
characters.
 Aretha Franklin (1942-2018): Known as the "Queen of Soul," Aretha Franklin was a
legendary American singer and songwriter. Her powerful and soulful voice made her a
symbol of female empowerment in the music industry.
 Nina Simone (1933-2003): An American singer, songwriter, and civil rights activist, Nina
Simone's music traversed genres, including jazz, blues, and soul. Her powerful voice and
socially conscious lyrics left an indelible mark on the music world.

RECOGNITION OF WOMEN'S HISTORY IN SOUTH ASIA, ESPECIALLY

PAKISTAN AND INDIA:
The recognition of women's history in South Asia, including Pakistan and India, has evolved over
time through various social, cultural, and political developments. Here's a brief overview of how and
when this recognition began to take shape:
1. Early Movements and Activism (19th and Early 20th Century):
 In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, women in South Asia, particularly in urban
centers, began participating in social reform movements and advocating for women's
rights and education.
 Figures like Begum Rokeya Sakhawat Hossain in Bengal (now Bangladesh) and
Rukhmabai Raut in India were among the early advocates for women's education and
social reform.
2. Women's Suffrage and Independence Movements (Early to Mid-20th Century):
  During the struggle for independence from colonial rule, women played active roles
in various nationalist movements, contributing to the broader fight for freedom and
rights.
 Notable figures such as Sarojini Naidu, Kamaladevi Chattopadhyay, and Fatima
Jinnah were prominent leaders who advocated for women's rights and participated in
political activism.
3. Post-Independence Era (Mid-20th Century Onward):
 After independence, the recognition of women's history and contributions gained
momentum through academic research, literary works, and advocacy efforts.
 Women's organizations, feminist movements, and scholars began highlighting
women's achievements, struggles, and roles in shaping society and culture.
 In Pakistan, for example, the work of scholars like Khawar Mumtaz and the
establishment of organizations like the Aurat Foundation contributed to advancing
women's rights and recognition.
4. Influence of Global Feminist Movements (Late 20th Century):
 The global feminist movement of the late 20th century had a significant impact on
South Asia, leading to increased awareness, activism, and scholarship focused on
women's history and issues.
 Women's studies departments were established in universities, and research on
women's history, literature, and experiences expanded.
5. Modern Era (21st Century):
 In recent decades, there has been a growing emphasis on documenting women's
history, preserving women's stories, and promoting gender equality in South Asian
societies.
 Digital platforms, social media, and international collaborations have further
amplified the voices and narratives of women, contributing to increased recognition
and awareness.
Overall, the recognition of women's history in South Asia has been a gradual but significant process,
shaped by historical movements, activism, academic inquiry, and ongoing efforts to promote gender
equality and social justice.
FACTS ABOUT WOMEN HISTORY :
Here are some fascinating facts about women’s history that will showcase their accomplishments and
just how far women have come.
 New Zealand was the first country to grant women the right to vote in 1893, setting the stage
for global suffrage movements. In 1920, the 19th Amendment to the United States
Constitution granted American women the right to vote.
 Marie Curie is the only woman to ever win two Nobel Prizes in different fields. The first prize
was awarded in Physics for her groundbreaking work on spontaneous radiation and her
second award was for her work in Chemistry regarding radioactivity.
 The first woman elected to lead a country was Sirimavo Bandaranaike of Sri Lanka. In 1960,
she assumed the role of prime minister and later secured re-election in 1970. She stands
 among the limited number of female heads of state, but female leaders in Brazil, Switzerland,
Costa Rica, Lithuania, and Gabon, reflect a gradual increase in the representation of women
in top political positions globally.
 Rosalind Franklin, a British biophysicist, was crucial in the discovery of the DNA’s double
helix structure, but her contributions were initially overshadowed.
 Although 60% of U.S. college degree earners today are women, Women did not always have
access to education.. Prior to the 19th century, very few girls received formal schooling unless
their families could afford a private education, which mostly focused on manners and
domesticity. Social movements gradually broke down gendered barriers over the decades and
by 1972, Title IX guaranteed Americans freedom from sex-based discrimination in education
and athletics.
 Prior to the 1900s women often wrote under pen names because it was not seen as appropriate
for them to contribute to literature. Famous authors who used pen names include Jane Austen,
the Bronte Sisters, Mary Ann Evans (aka George Eliot), and Louisa May Alcott.
 Women played crucial roles as codebreakers during World War II. The contributions of
women like Joan Clarke, who worked alongside Alan Turing, were instrumental in
deciphering encrypted messages and aiding the Allied war effort.
 Valentina Tereshkova, a Soviet cosmonaut, became the first woman to travel into space in
1963. Her historic mission aboard Vostok 6 marked a significant milestone in space
exploration.
 Today, 77% of moms with kids under 18 also have jobs. In 1975, fewer than 47% did.
Historically, the idea of women working outside of the home was frowned upon, and most
women who did so worked in traditionally female occupations such as maids and
seamstresses Today, more women not only work outside the home but across many
occupations, with some even making it to the top of business, technology and science field.
 At the first Winter Olympic Games in 1924, the only event open to women was figure
skating, and there were only 15 women competing. Women and girls have made huge strides
when it comes to representation in sports . However, they still face discrimination, with
women athletes being substantially underpaid compared to their male counterparts.
 Equal access to education remains an issue in developed countries for women of marginalized
identities, women with lower socio-economic backgrounds, and single moms. In several parts
of the world, such as Afghanistan and sub-Saharan Africa, women have extremely limited
access to education (sometimes none at all), particularly in rural areas.

SIGNIFICANCE :
The significance of women's history as an academic discipline and for society as a whole is
multifaceted and profound:
1. Representation and Diversity: Women's history ensures that the experiences, contributions,
and achievements of women are represented and acknowledged in historical narratives. This
promotes a more inclusive and diverse understanding of human history, challenging
traditional narratives that often focus solely on men's experiences and actions.
2. Empowerment and Inspiration: Studying women's history can empower individuals,
especially women and girls, by providing role models, highlighting past struggles and
triumphs, and showcasing the agency and resilience of women throughout history. This can
 inspire future generations to pursue their aspirations, advocate for their rights, and contribute
to positive societal change.
3. Challenging Gender Stereotypes: Women's history challenges and breaks down gender
stereotypes by demonstrating the diversity of women's roles, contributions, and experiences
across different time periods, cultures, and societies. This helps dismantle rigid gender norms
and encourages critical thinking about gender roles and expectations.
4. Understanding Social Change: Women's history offers insights into the ways in which gender
dynamics have shaped social, political, economic, and cultural developments over time. It
helps us understand the impact of gender inequality, discrimination, and activism on historical
processes and social change.
5. Intersectionality: Women's history intersects with various aspects of identity such as race,
ethnicity, class, sexuality, ability, and more. Exploring these intersections enriches our
understanding of how multiple forms of oppression and privilege intersect and shape
individuals' experiences and opportunities.
6. Promoting Social Justice: Women's history contributes to broader movements for social
justice and equality by highlighting historical injustices, advocating for marginalized voices,
and promoting awareness of ongoing gender-based discrimination and challenges.
7. Academic Enrichment: As an academic discipline, women's history enriches historical
scholarship by offering new perspectives, methodologies, and research areas. It encourages
interdisciplinary approaches and fosters critical analysis of historical sources and narratives.
In summary, women's history is significant both academically and for society as a whole because it
promotes inclusivity, empowers individuals, challenges stereotypes, enhances our understanding of
social dynamics, and contributes to the pursuit of a more equitable and just world.

COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF WOMEN HISTORY : EARLY STRUGGLE PERIOD

VS 21ST CENTURY :
1.LEGAL RIGHTS AND SOCIAL STATUS:
Early Struggle Period: During the early struggle period, women had limited legal rights and were
often considered inferior to men in many societies. They were largely confined to domestic roles, with
few opportunities for education, employment, or political participation.
21st Century: In contrast, the 21st century has witnessed significant advancements in women's legal
rights and social status. Many countries have enacted laws to promote gender equality, and women
now have greater access to education, employment, and political representation than ever before.
2. ACTIVISM AND MOVEMENT:
Early Struggle Period: Women throughout history engaged in various forms of activism and
resistance to challenge gender inequality. This includes suffragist movements, feminist writings, and
grassroots organizing efforts to demand equal rights and opportunities.
21st Century: Feminist movements in the 21st century continue to advocate for gender equality and
address issues such as reproductive rights, workplace discrimination, and violence against women.
However, these movements often incorporate intersectional perspectives, recognizing the
interconnected nature of gender with race, class, sexuality, and other identities.
3. PIONEERING WORK AND SCHOLARSHIPS:
Early Struggle Period: Pioneering works in women's history during this period laid the groundwork
for feminist thought and activism. Writers such as Mary Wollstonecraft, Elizabeth Cady Stanton, and
Virginia Woolf challenged traditional gender norms and advocated for women's rights.
21st Century: Women's history scholarship in the 21st century continues to expand and diversify,
incorporating perspectives from various disciplines and marginalized communities. Intersectional
approaches to women's history highlight the experiences of women of color, LGBTQ+ individuals,
and other marginalized groups.
4. GLOBAL PERSPECTIVE:
Early Struggle Period: Women's experiences and struggles varied widely across different regions
and cultures during the early struggle period. While some societies afforded women relatively greater
autonomy and rights, others imposed strict patriarchal norms and restrictions on women's freedoms.
21st Century: Globalization and increased connectivity have facilitated the sharing of ideas and
strategies for women's rights activism worldwide. Women in different parts of the world collaborate
and support each other's struggles for gender equality, drawing attention to common challenges and
injustices.
5. TECHNOLOGY AND MEDIA:
Early Struggle Period: Women's voices and experiences were often marginalized or silenced in
traditional media and cultural representations during the early struggle period. Access to information
and platforms for communication was limited.
21st Century: Advances in technology and the rise of social media have empowered women to
amplify their voices, share their stories, and mobilize for social change. Digital activism and online
movements have played a significant role in raising awareness about gender inequality and promoting
feminist agendas.
But the work continues. A 2017 survey by the National Women’s History Museum found that state
educational standards overemphasize women’s domestic roles and overlook the breadth and depth of
women’s history. Still, there’s reason to hope. After all, the effort to recognize women of the past is
one of persistence and creativity. As MacGregor recalled in an oral history in the early 2000s, “The
real story is we said “OK, this is a challenge, and what are we going to do with it?”

CONCLSION:
In conclusion, the recognition of women's history is not merely an academic endeavor but a crucial
step towards understanding the complexities of human experiences. It reflects the relentless resilience,
extraordinary achievements, and persistent struggles of women across generations and continents.
While significant strides have been made in advancing women's legal rights, social status, and
representation, challenges such as gender inequality, discrimination, and underrepresentation persist.
The journey towards a more inclusive and equitable society requires continuous efforts in education,
advocacy, and policy changes. By celebrating diversity, amplifying marginalized voices, and
embracing intersectional perspectives, we can build a world that honors and empowers every
individual, irrespective of gender, race, or background.

A Feminist Author Quote that :

“WOMEN HAVE BEEN A FORCE IN MAKING ALL THE HISTORY THAT HAS EVER
BEEN MADE”
~MARY RITTER BEARD