- February 29, 2024
“I desire you would remember the ladies and be more generous and favorable to them than your ancestors. Do not put such unlimited power into the hands of the husbands. Remember, all men would be tyrants if they could. If particular care and attention is not paid to the ladies, we are determined to foment a rebellion, and will not hold ourselves bound by any laws in which we have no voice or representation.” Abigail Adams to her husband John Adams, March 31, 1776.
It took more than 100 years for Abigail’s admonishment to her husband to come to fruition. In 1920, after years of campaigning, and in the face of fierce resistance, women in the United States were granted the right to vote when the 19th amendment was passed. But women all over the world were blazing trails in science, the arts and humanities for centuries before 1920.
Cleopatra held her reign over Egypt for 21 years. She spoke several languages and was educated in mathematics, philosophy, oratory and astronomy, and “elevated the ranks of scholars and enjoyed their company.” She did it with strength, cunning and strategy.
Ancient Egypt color image of Egyptian Queen Cleopatra on wall of temple
Author and philosopher Mary Wollstonecraft was ahead of her time, advocating for women’s equality in the 18th century. Harriett Tubman rescued dozens of slaves, risking her life in the process. Marie Curie was the first woman to win the Nobel Peace prize, and she did it twice!
Elizabeth Cady Stanton and Susan B. Anthony championed women’s right to vote, and the glamorous Hedy Lamarr was a pioneer in radio technology. That’s a short list. You can read about more women in history by clicking on the link at the bottom of this post.
North Hill has some pioneering women among our residents. Physicians, judges, lawyers, professional musicians, civil rights activists, and accomplished artists and professors are all among the women who enrich the North Hill Community.
Join us this month for 2 events celebrating women composers and performers. Call if you have questions: 781 433 6524
Tuesday, March 12 at 7:30 pm: Bonnie Anderson, Clara Schumann and Friends. Expressive interpretations of classical music by female composers from around the world.
Thursday, March 21 at 7:30 pm: Women in World Jazz Quartet. An award winning all women ensemble playing music from around the world composed by women past and present. A multi-media performance which mixes live music in several languages, story telling and slides.
Further Reading
https://www.historyextra.com/100-women/100-women-results/