Sunitha Krishnan

Sunitha Krishnan was born in Bangalore, India, in 1972. Her activist passion began at an early age; between the ages of eight and twelve, she taught dance to special needs children and started school's in the "slum" district for underprivileged youth. While working at a literacy campaign at the age of 15, Krishnan was beaten and raped by a group of men who didn't want a woman interfering in what they called a "man's society." This incident left her partially deaf in one ear, and became the driving force behind her future advocacies. 

In 1996, Krishnan co-founded the organization called Prajwala, which means "eternal flame." Prajwala is dedicated to helping victims of sex trafficking in India. The various programs focus on every aspect of rehabilitation from the prostitution industry, including rescuing victims from these tragic situations. Those who are recovered are given shelter, in which they receive medical care for both physical and psychological needs as well as proper education and vocational training so that they can learn to thrive in their communities. Krishnan encourages others to reach out and get involved:

"Together we will end sex slavery across the Globe! I wish to interact with those of you who would like to start/ expand this mission in your own geographical areas. Every month on a designated day and time, I will be available for a live chat from this webpage on exploring the possibilities of spreading this mission world-wide."

Krishnan's cause resonates with women all over the world, whether they have been a victim of sexual abuse, know someone who has, or just want to be an advocate for their fellow women. Even though she faced her own trauma as a young woman, she did not let that stop her mission, but instead used it as fuel to help others. Krishnan never gave up and now she is changing the lives of thousands of people. 

Works Consulted:

“CURRENT NEWS.” Prajwala, www.prajwalaindia.com/index.html.  

“Sunitha Krishnan, World of Children.” World of Children, worldofchildren.org/honoree/sunitha-krishnan/. 

“Sunitha Krishnan.” Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, Oct. 2018, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sunitha_Krishnan.

Inanna (Ishtar): Goddess of War, Love, and Sex

Originally noted in ancient Mesopotamia, Inanna, is the Goddess of war, sex, love, and fertility. She became to be one of the most powerful women in ancient Babylon, and even has higher authority over men. Inanna is worshipped and loved by many Mesopotamians. Temples in Uruk, Babylon, and Nineveh have been built so people can devout their worship to her (1).

Many stories have been told on how Inanna originated. A primary myth is that, Inanna, is the daughter of the sky God, An, and is even sometimes is wife (2). She is also interpreted as the twin of Shamash. This triad creates Heaven, Earth, and Water. Inanna controls the Earth, and the people within it (1).

As the Goddess of war, Inanna, would would assist the Assyrian solider in war. Before battle started, Ishtar, would appear before the army in armor of a male, and often times was seen riding a lion (1). She helped the army win many battle, and is seen as a strong aspect in wartime.

Inanna is also known for her intense sense to sexuality. Inanna was known for her beauty, and many loved her. She was never faithful in her marriage, and often times seduced others. In The Epic of Gilgamesh, Inanna, sends people to destroy Gilgamesh's relax after he rejects her (3). She also was seen as the patron to her cult of prostitutes. These scared prostitutes were of all genders, and must ensure fertility among the communities (3).

 Inanna is among one of the most popular Goddess. She has inspirited other deities in other cultures around the world, and is promotes feminine power. She is fully aware of her beauty, and uses that to her advantage. She does not care about how men will perceive her. In ancient Sumerian culture, women were seen as equals to men, and this Goddess represents the culture at that time. Many still worship her today because what she stands for, and reminds others that everyone is equal.










Works Cited:

1) "Ishtar". New World Encyclopedia, New World Encyclopedia, 25 October 2018, http://www.newworldencyclopedia.org/entry/Ishtar#History_and_character

2) “Ishtar: Mesopotamian Goddess”. Encyclopedia of Britannica. Britannica. 25 October 2018, https://www.britannica.com/topic/Ishtar-Mesopotamian-goddess

3) “Inanna”. Ancient History Encyclopedia. Ancient History Encyclopedia, 25 October 2018, https://www.ancient.eu/Inanna                        
                                                                                                                       

Maria Quiteria

It is not hard to imagine a time when women were not given equal rights as men, especially when it came to fighting in the war. María Quitéria was born on July 27th, 1792 on a farm in Feira de Santana, Bahia, Colonial Brazil. Maria lost her mother when she was just ten years old, forcing her to grow up faster and take care of herself as well as her little sister. After her mother’s death, Maria’s father remarried twice. Maria’s relationship with her second stepmother was a bit rocky, as their values and beliefs often did not align. 

Since Maria did not attend school, she spent most of her time tending to the farm and providing to her family. She often would go hunting and fishing, and had knowledge of how to handle weapons. All of these skills would soon help her later on in life. Maria was ahead of her time for a female in the 1790’s. She was very independent and went against the norms of girls her age. Domestic chores were a bore to her, as she could not wait to go out and hunt the families dinner for the night. 

In 1822 the Brazilian army started asking for volunteers for the war against the Portuguese. When Maria’s father denied her request to join, she borrowed her brother in laws uniform,cut her hair, and enlisted in the army as a man. Women were prohibited to fight in the war, so this was the only way Maria could join the cause. She felt as though that this was her life calling, explaining why she was so different than other women at the time.

With her experience of handling weapons Maria enlisted in the artillery regiment under the name Medeiros. She was then moved to the infantry and became part of the Emperors Volunteer Battalion, where she became the first ever woman to belong to a military unit in Brazil. Two weeks later, her father found her and exposed her identity as a woman to her commander. However, when her commander Major Silva and Castro were informed of this they did not allow Maria to leave. She had already proved herself worthy with gaining the respect and companionship of her fellow soldiers, as well as having vast knowledge and the skills needed when it came to handling the artillery. 

After it was revealed that Maria was indeed a woman, she was not required to dress in mens clothes and continue the act she had put up to get into the army. She wore skirts and props that she made herself to make herself more feminine. Maria’s act of bravery influenced woman all over Brazil to join the army. This group of women were led by Maria and continued to fight alongside her.Maria and her crew fought many battles including Mare Island, Island, Barra do Paraguaçu, Itapuã and Pituba. Maria was eventually promoted to a Cadet after Brazil had defeated the Portuguese troops. According to Governo do Brasil, in July of 1823 Maria was recognized as a honorable hero of the wars for independence. She received the title of Knight of the Imperial Order of the Cross from the Emperor himself. This Brazilian magazine tells the story of Maria and all of her accomplishments in battle. It also provides good visuals to help illustrate her accomplishments. 

Maria is the depiction of a true woman warrior. She fought not only a physical war but also a personal battle. Being the first woman to ever to belong to a unit in the Brazilian army was a huge accomplishment. This act helped paved the way for many young woman, showing them they did not have to be at home waiting for their husbands to return from war. She went against her cultural values first by joining the war, then by becoming such a memorable soldier. Her picture is now hung up in all military buildings in Brazil in honor of her service and progressive feminist movement rights. There is also now a medal named after her, “The Medal of Maria Quiteria” which is awarded to civilian and military personnel for their acts towards military efforts. 

Works Cited

“María Quitéria De Jesús, The Heroine of Brazil.” Amura Yachts & Lifestyle, amuraworld.com/en/topics/history-art-and-culture/articles/272-maria-quiteria-de-jesus-the-heroine-of-brazil.

“Maria Quitéria.” Governo Do Brasil, 4 May 2012, www.brasil.gov.br/noticias/seguranca-e-justica/2012/04/maria-quiteria.

“Maria Quitéria.” Brasil Escola, brasilescola.uol.com.br/biografia/maria-quiteria.htm.

“Maria Quitéria.” Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, 23 Sept. 2018, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maria_Quit%C3%A9ria.

Queen of England Margaret Of Anjou

Margaret of Anjou

Margaret of Anjou Story:

Margaret was born in Anjou France on March 23rd, 1430. She was the daughter of Rene Anjou. (1)When she was 14, she was marry to King Henry VI and was crowned a year later. Her marriage symbolize almost like a peace treaty between two countries. The terms of the marriage were that she wasn't allowed to ask money or even get money from the king instead she received the lands of Maine and Anjo from the English. (2) The couple conceived a son who was named Edward. Sadly, in 1453, at the age of 32 Henry VI began to exhibit signs of mental illness which caused him to go into a comma.(2)

War of the Roses:
This war was fought between two rival families: The House of Lancaster and The House of York. Margaret, she took control of the country and led the fight against Henry's enemies.(3) In May 1455, dispute erupted into armed conflict with a Yorkist victory over the Lancastrians. Richard of York controlled the government until Margaret threw him from power in 1456.(1) She upheld her son’s claim to the royal succession and refused to accept the compromise by York. Surprisingly, her people killed York and freed the king from captivity. Later in her life, her son was killed and soon afterward her husband was murdered. She returned to France, where she died in poverty.

Cultural values: 
At this time, Margaret wasn't adhering to the society gender norms. When her husband was in the hospital the right thing would have been to stay physical in the room and not fight in the war, but she chose to fight to protect the throne. However, she was protective over her son goal. Like she went out of her way to make sure her son upheld his goal and that was being the next king after his father died. 
Every mother would want to make their child goal or dream in life come true, like they want to see them succeed in life. 

However, in my life when I came out my mom said I wont be able to succeed in my goal because of the fact I am gay. So hearing that did hurt me but now that I am older, I know its not true and just wishing she would still support my dream. 

      





                                              Workcited:
1.      Britannica, The Editors of Encyclopaedia. “Margaret of Anjou.” Encyclopædia Britannica, Encyclopædia Britannica, Inc., 21 Aug. 2018,                         www.britannica.com/biography/Margaret-of-Anjou-queen-of-England.

2. “English Alonarchs.” Margaret of Anjou., 2004,                  www.englishmonarchs.co.uk/plantagenet_26.html. 

3.“Middle Ages.” Ducksters Educational Site, 2018, www.ducksters.com/history/middle_ages/wars_of_the_roses.php. 

Deborah Sampson

Picture 1

Born in Plympton, Massachusetts on December 17, 1760 was Deborah Sampson. She had six younger siblings; Jonathan, Elisha, Hannah, Ephraim, Nehemiah, and Sylvia. Growing up, Sampson's life was rather difficult. It was said that her father, Jonathan Sampson, abandoned her and her family and ended up marrying another woman (1). Due to her father abandoning them, her mother, Deborah Bradford, was not able to provide for her and her children. She moved from house to house as a young child and never had the opportunity to explore education.

After her mother's death, Sampson moved in to live with the Thomas family where she worked as a servant for eight years. It was during these eight years where she acquired skills such as woodworking and mechanical techniques. Even though she didn't attend school or have any background of a formal education, one of the Thomas son's shared their school work with her in which she learned some academic skills (1).

In the year of 1782, Deborah Sampson enlisted in the Continental Army to fight in the American Revolutionary War under the name of "Robert Shurtleff"(2). Her comrades in the army referred to her as "Molly" because she didn't grow any facial hair. While in the army she suffered from both riffle and musket wounds. These wounds didn't stop her from fighting; her perseverance and determination kept her going.

Picture 2

The reasoning behind Sampson wanting to enlist in the army was because she started to feel restless and wanted to be able to travel the world. She knew that as a young girl she was extremely limited on what she could do with her life. Her parents were absent from her life, and she and her siblings were all split up from one another. Her idea of becoming a cross-dresser came from a fortune teller (3). She was able to make herself a uniform from her previous knowledge of sewing skills from when she was a servant.

Sampson or "Shurtleff" first battle was in Tarrytown, New York on July 3, 1782. During this time she was injured with two musket balls in her thigh and a cut in her forehead. As much as she didn't want to go to the hospital to get help, a soldier took her anyway. She was fearful that her true identity would be given away. While at the hospital she allowed the doctor to treat her forehead but managed to escape before he was able to attend to her leg. Sampson was able to take one of the two musket balls out her leg by using a penknife and sewing needle (1).

Picture 3

In the summer of 1783, Sampson became ill and was looked after by Dr. Barnabas Binny while in Philadelphia. Her true identity was revealed when Dr. Binny was removing her clothes to treat her (1). He saw that a wrap was around her breasts to compress them to make her look more like a man. Instead of revealing her to true identity to the army, he took her home to his house to treat her privately. Once Sampson was healed, he asked her to deliver a letter to General Paterson (4). The note regarded her true identity. Rather than being reprimanded, which was supposed to happen to women who impersonated men in the army, she was given and Honorable Discharge on October 23, 1783 (3).

On April 7, 1785, Deborah Sampson married Benjamin Gannett. The two of them lived in Sharon, Massachusetts where they became farmers. Deborah and Benjamin had three children of their own; Earl, Mary and Patience and adopted an orphan named Susanna Baker Shepard (4).

Picture 4

Due to Sampson being a woman, the government withheld the money they owed her from being in the army, but on January of 1792, she petitioned the Massachusetts State Legislature to give her the money they owed her (1). It was John Hancock that allowed her to receive the money that she earned while her time spent in the army. She was awarded with 34 pounds which converts to $43.62 in todays US dollar.

In the year of 1802, she began giving speeches all of the world telling her story of how she dressed up as a man to enlist in the army. She would even bring her uniform and weapons with her to show her audiences. Sampson wanted to make it aware that anyone can do anything if they out their mind to it. She didn't want the world to have specific standards where women can only do certain tasks, her goal was for everyone to have equal opportunity and rights.

At age of 66, Deborah Sampson died from yellow fever on April 29, 1827. She was buried at Rock Ridge Cemetery in Sharon, Massachusetts. Sampson left behind a legacy and a message that should never be forgotten. No matter if you are male or female, we are are all humans and should all be treated equal with the same rights.

Picture 5

In my opinion, Deborah Sampson was certainly an incredible woman and can be recognized as a Warrior Woman. She shows feministic like qualities by stepping out of her comfort zone and going to fight in the army. I find her truly inspiring because I could never imagine being separated from my family, to then be a servant, and later enlist in the army all because she wanted to see the world. She enlists in to the army knowing the sacrifices and consequences that may come out of it. She knew that she was limited to what she could do in life which is why her being in the army is all the more inspiring. Deborah Sampson creates a life for herself and goes after what she wants-to see the world- despite possibly being reprimanded for impersonation. Her story should teach women of ages to go after what they want no matter how risky it may be. Although Sampson didn't come from much of anything and didn't end up with many materialistic things in the end, she proved to that she was capable of fighting in a war and fending for herself to see the world like she wished.



Works Cited:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Deborah_Sampson   (picture 1)
“Deborah Sampson.” Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, 18 Oct. 2018, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Deborah_Sampson.


https://gardenofpraise.com/ibdsamp.htm    (picture 2)
“Deborah Sampson.” Garden of Praise: Deborah Sampson Biography, 2001, gardenofpraise.com/ibdsamp.htm.


https://edu.glogster.com/glog/deborah-sampson/22fn53ovhte    (picture 3)
Team, Glogster. “Deborah Sampson.” Www.glogster.com, edu.glogster.com/glog/deborah-sampson/22fn53ovhte.


https://blog.richmond.edu/heroes/2015/05/17/deborah-sampson-a-patriot-by-any-other-name/  (picture 4)
“Deborah Sampson: A Patriot By Any Other Name.” Heroes: What They Do & Why We Need Them, 18 May 2015, blog.richmond.edu/heroes/2015/05/17/deborah-sampson-a-patriot-by-any-other-name/.


https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/377/deborah-gannett  (Picture 5)
“Deborah Sampson Gannett.” Findagrave.com, 2018, www.findagrave.com/memorial/377/deborah-gannett.



https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Deborah_Sampson (1)
“Deborah Sampson.” Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, 18 Oct. 2018, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Deborah_Sampson.


https://www.britannica.com/biography/Deborah-Sampson (2)
Britannica, The Editors of Encyclopaedia. “Deborah Sampson.” Encyclopædia Britannica, Encyclopædia Britannica, Inc., 22 Apr. 2018, www.britannica.com/biography/Deborah-Sampson.


https://www.womenshistory.org/education-resources/biographies/deborah-sampson (3)
“Deborah Sampson.” National Women's History Museum, www.womenshistory.org/education-resources/biographies/deborah-sampson.

http://historyofmassachusetts.org/deborah-sampson-woman-warrior-of-the-american-revoultion/ (4)
“Deborah Sampson: Woman Warrior of the American Revolution.” History of Massachusetts, historyofmassachusetts.org/deborah-sampson-woman-warrior-of-the-american-revoultion/.

Lagertha:
The Legendary Norwegian Viking Shieldmaiden

Lagertha, by Morris Meredith Williams
Image Credit: Wikipedia

Lagertha was a warrior, a ruler, a face to be feared on the battlefield, and the wife of one of the most famous men in Viking history. However, to this day, historians have yet to determine whether or not the legendary Norwegian Viking shieldmaiden truly existed throughout history or is simply fictitious. And that is precisely what makes her story as interesting as it is.

One of the most famous written records about Lagertha comes from the chronicler Saxo Grammaticus the Literate, or "The Grammarian", in the 12th century book titled "The Deed of the Danes". In the book, "The Grammarian" recounts, "Ladgerda, a skilled Amazon, who, though a maiden, had the courage of a man and fought in front among the bravest with her hair loose over her shoulders. All marveled at her matchless deeds, for her locks flying down her back betrayed that she was a woman". In the book, Lagertha is also described as having "a matchless spirit though a delicate frame". Her beauty is often emphasized in ancient texts, such as it is in "The Deeds of the Danes". However, her notable beauty did not take away from her reputation as a fierce warrior-woman. Rather, it was simply another attribute to be admired by both friend and foe.

Katheryn Winnick as Lagertha on Vikings

Lagertha is also widely known for her marriage to famed Norse chieftain Ragnar Lothbrok. They are told to have met during the battle that drove her to being a longtime warrior, of all places. The Swedish king of the time, named Fro, inspired the battle when he had invaded medieval Norway and murdered the Norwegian king of the time, named Siward. After Ragnar Lothbrok heard of the murder, he decided to avenge Siward. During the battle, Lagertha led a group of women who dressed themselves up in men's clothing. Lagertha was said to have played a pivotal part in the ultimate defeat of Fro, gaining the attention of Ragnar in the process. Not long after, they married and had one son and two daughters.

Lagertha, Ragnar Lothbrok, and their children
as portrayed in The History Channel's popular show Vikings

Katheryn Winnick as Lagertha on Vikings

For the past five years, Lagertha has been rightfully depicted as a fierce and respected warrior woman on The History Channel's popular show Vikings. Her character is portrayed by the Canadian actress Katheryn Winnick. Throughout the show's five-year history, audiences have raved over Winnick's portrayal of the legendary Lagertha. Winnick has also been praised on multiple occasions for her impressive battle scenes. Entertainment Weekly has said that Winnick's role as Lagertha "may be the most exciting feminist character on tv". Viewers continue to express their appreciation for Lagertha's ability to never fail to use her voice as a weapon and to never cower in the face of danger or when she is in the presence of a man. Her responsibilities of being a ruler do not keep her from being a fierce protector of her children. In fact, many of her story-lines circulate around doing what is best for her family in order to guarantee both her and their survival. Overall, Lagertha manages to be both a wicked warrior and a monstrous mother.

I, myself, am a dedicated viewer of the show Vikings. Oftentimes, getting the chance to see a ferocious woman like Lagertha kick butt on my television screen will be the highlight of my day, or even of my entire week. Usually, television shows and blockbuster films can be found depriving their audiences of strong-minded female characters. And as is true with most period pieces, there is almost always a strong overtone of patriarchy. However, nowadays, audiences are finally getting to see women of power on their screens. Lagertha is one of those many.

"You couldn't kill me if you tried for a hundred years,"

- Lagertha Lothbrok, Season 1: "Rites of Passage"

Works Cited:

Descendants , Norman. “Lagertha: The Real Shieldmaiden.” InventoryBag, 11 Aug. 2017, inventorybag.com/blogs/normandescendants/lagertha-the-real-shieldmaiden.

Grammaticus, Saxo. “THE DANISH HISTORY.” The Danish History, by Saxo Grammaticus, 6 Feb. 2013, www.gutenberg.org/files/1150/1150-h/1150-h.htm#link2H_4_0020.

HISTORY. “Vikings: Vikings Official Trailer | History.” YouTube, YouTube, 17 Jan. 2013, www.youtube.com/watch?v=7rcozIVtujw.

“The Historical Truth Behind Lagertha.” The Dockyards, 11 Apr. 2017, thedockyards.com/the-historical-truth-behind-lagertha/#comment-2851.

Valby, Karen. “Vikings.” EW.com, 30 Apr. 2014, ew.com/article/2014/04/30/vikings-2/.

Agustina de Aragon

Agustina de Aragon was born March 4, 1786. This woman was a warrior during the Peninsular war in Spain between 1807 and 1814. Known as "the Spanish Joan of Arch" her courage led her to become an officer in the Spanish army. According to Heritage History, on June 15, 1808 the French army reached Saragossa, where Agustina witnessed her army fall to the French. Agustina wasn't going to just stand there, so she ran towards a cannon pointed at the French army and lit the fuse. The scene of a lone woman with the courage to run towards war encouraged the Spanish troops to keep fighting. The French army fell back and for a couple weeks the city was secure. Though the French did gain the land later on, Agustina de Aragon was seen as a hero and inspiration to those fighting against the French. 

Agustina continued to fight against the French and later paired up with the Duke of Wellington. According to Badass of the Week, she was promoted to Captain. Agustina and her men later fought the French in the Battle of Vitoria  pushed them out completely once and for all. 
Agustina's "manly" actions would've been a problem if it weren't for the french capturing the King of Spain. Spain didn't have women fighting before this it was not part of their societal norms. The church took over and declared every Spaniard to take arms. This opened the gates for women to fight and become leaders in war changing their views on women in positions of power like captains and lieutenants. 
Agustina demonstrated all the characteristics of a woman warrior. She put herself before all the men that couldn't to defend her city. Her actions were recognized after the war was over and she continued to be praised. Even now I believe people would appreciate what she did if the information was taught in school. We learn about all the men that stayed behind and gave orders but Agustina gave orders and fought with her men she didn't stay back sheltered and safe. People will always find inspiration in those who put themselves on the line for others and that's what Agustina did throughout the war. Personally I believe we don't hear about warrior women enough. There are so many women that have done great things for many countries that surpass men and are never recognized. 
                                                                 Works Cited

“Agustina De Aragon.” Heritage History - Products, www.heritage-history.com/index.php?c=resources&s=char-dir&f=agustina.

Badass of the Week: Agustina De Aragon, www.badassoftheweek.com/agustina.html.

“Agustina De Aragón.” Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, 8 Oct. 2018, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Agustina_de_Arag%C3%B3n.

Queen Amina of Zaria

‘Amina, daughter of Nikatau, a woman as capable as a man.’

Queen Amina (also known as Queen Aminatu),was the oldest daughter of Queen Bakwa Turunku, the founder of the Zazzau Kingdom in 1536. Queen Amina was the heir to the throne after her mother, and her reign began in 1549.  This medieval African kingdom was located in the region now known as the Kaduna State in Nigeria, capital at the modern city of Zaria, which is named after Queen Amina's sister, Zaria. (Queen Amina of Zazzau: A West African Warrior Queen, Black History Heroes) 

Many people have referred to Queen Amina as the warrior queen. She became the first female queen in her society that was otherwise predominately male. She was a hero to the people of Hausa, when she played a key role in expanding the borders of Africa for this territory. She was able to do this with her desire to be a leader and her extensive military training. Queen Amina was the black sheep of her family and decided to take a different route as leader compared to her parents. During her father's reign, he remained peaceful and did not engage is violence, which was unexpected for a male in power, even in today's society. Queen Amina on the other hand, spent many years before her reign crafting her military skills with the Zazzau Calvary. During this time, she earned respect as a military leader and a force to reckoned with. (Queen Amina of Zaria, African Feminist Forum)

A statue of Queen Amina

The following excerpt was taken from an online article written about Queen Amina to show her significance as a woman warrior and what she accomplished during her reign. "Queen Amina is a legend among the Hausa people for her military exploits. She controlled the trade routes in the region, erecting a network of commerce within the great earthen walls that surrounded Hausa cities within her dominion. According to the Kano Chronicle, she conquered as far as Nupe and Kwarafa, ruling for 34 years." (Queen Amina of Zazzau: A West African Warrior Queen, Black History Heroes) 

Queen Amina was very influential to the people of Hausa and created a lasting legacy for the people who live there. The following except from an online article depicts how Queen Amina left a legacy that is still standing today. "Amina is also credited as the architect of the strong earthen walls around the city, which became the prototype for the fortifications used in all Hausa states. She built many of these fortifications, later known as ganuwar Amina or ‘Amina’s walls’, around many cities she conquered during her reign.. Many of these walls remain in existence to this day." (Queen Amina of Zaria, African Feminist Forum) 

Ganuwar Amina

Queen Amina was a very early example of a woman warrior. She fought gender stereotypes early on, in a different century, before they were even a topic to be debated. She chose to be a leader who took physical action and engage in violence, which was and still is unexpected for a woman. She reminds me very much of the Disney princess we recently discussed in class, Mulan. She is a realistic version of Mulan and was an inspiring female warrior in combat, just like Mulan was in a fictional sense. Queen Amina was dedicated to serving her people and did not let the fact that she was a woman, and was not well respected, stop her from doing so. 

A video for further research on Queen Amina

Works Cited

“Queen Amina of Zazzau: A West African Warrior Queen.” Black History Heroes,        www.blackhistoryheroes.com/2013/07/queen-amina-of-zaira-west-african.html.

“Queen Amina of Zaria.” African Feminist Forum, 25 Mar. 2016, www.africanfeministforum.com/queen-amina-of-zaria-nigeria/.

Nakano Takeko: Woman Warrior of Aizu

Portrait of Nakano Takeko

Nakano Takeko spent her short life dedicated to being a highly skilled female samurai. She passed away heroically at the age of 21 while taking on the Imperial Army. 

Life as a warrior

Nakano Takeko was born in 1840 in Edo, Japan. Daughter of an army official, she grew up being trained in literary and forms of martial arts, including one-sword fighting. (3) She was adoptive daughter to her martial arts trainer for several years to focus more on her skills. She later ended up returning to her family after he attempted to arrange her hand in marriage. (2) (Being highly skilled, she became a martial arts instructor in her late teenage years. She is known to have killed at least 127 samurai.

During the later years of her training, the Boshin War began. Although Shogun surrendered, many supporters continued to fight and invaded Aizu. Takeko stepped up and fought during the invasion. Since women were prohibited from joining the army during this time, Takeko created a unofficial armed group of female samurai to fight alongside the Emperor's men. Among these 20 women were her mother and sister. (3) The female samurai were later named the "Jōshitai," which when translated means Women's army. (1)

While leading a charge against the Imperial Army, Takeko was able to kill at least 5 soldiers before she suffered a shot to the chest. Out of fear of having her body used as a trophy of war, she asked her sister to cut it off and bury it. (1) Her sister honored her wish and buried her under a pine tree in Hōkai-ji Temple. (3) 

The female samurai weapon of choice, naginata (Japanese pole weapon)

Legacy

A monument was erected at the Hōkai-ji Temple, next to her burial site. Every year during the Aizu Autumn festival, Takeko and her women army are honored by young girls to commemorate their bravery. (4) Even though she was not considered a member of the army, Takeko is remembered as one of the most resilient and courageous warriors in Japanese history. 

Nakano Takeko monument

Takeko in pop culture

Works Cited

“9 Female Warriors Who Made Their Mark On History.” Mental Floss, 5 Mar. 2017, mentalfloss.com/article/59287/9-female-warriors-who-made-their-mark-history. 

“Nakano Takeko.” The Female Soldier, thefemalesoldier.com/blog/nakano-takeko. 

“Nakano Takeko.” Badass Ladies of History, 10 June 2014, badassladiesofhistory.wordpress.com/2014/06/10/nakano-takeko/. 

“Takeko Nakano: The Samurai Who Refused to Die Quietly.” Rejected Princesses, www.rejectedprincesses.com/princesses/takeko-nakano.

“9 Female Warriors Who Made Their Mark On History.” Mental Floss, 5 Mar. 2017, mentalfloss.com/article/59287/9-female-warriors-who-made-their-mark-history. 

“Nakano Takeko.” The Female Soldier, thefemalesoldier.com/blog/nakano-takeko. 

“Nakano Takeko.” Badass Ladies of History, 10 June 2014, badassladiesofhistory.wordpress.com/2014/06/10/nakano-takeko/. 

“Takeko Nakano: The Samurai Who Refused to Die Quietly.” Rejected Princesses, www.rejectedprincesses.com/princesses/takeko-nakano.

“9 Female Warriors Who Made Their Mark On History.” Mental Floss, 5 Mar. 2017, mentalfloss.com/article/59287/9-female-warriors-who-made-their-mark-history. 

“Nakano Takeko.” The Female Soldier, thefemalesoldier.com/blog/nakano-takeko. 

“Nakano Takeko.” Badass Ladies of History, 10 June 2014, badassladiesofhistory.wordpress.com/2014/06/10/nakano-takeko/. 

“Takeko Nakano: The Samurai Who Refused to Die Quietly.” Rejected Princesses, www.rejectedprincesses.com/princesses/takeko-nakan

“9 Female Warriors Who Made Their Mark On History.” Mental Floss, 5 Mar. 2017, mentalfloss.com/article/59287/9-female-warriors-who-made-their-mark-history. (1)

Barb, Brutal. “Warrior Women: Nakano Takeko.” Warrior Women Self-Defense, 13 May 2018, www.warriorwomenselfdefense.org/warrior-women-nakano-takeko/. (2)

“Nakano Takeko.” The Female Soldier, thefemalesoldier.com/blog/nakano-takeko. (3)

“Nakano Takeko.” Badass Ladies of History, 10 June 2014, badassladiesofhistory.wordpress.com/2014/06/10/nakano-takeko/. (4)

“Takeko Nakano: The Samurai Who Refused to Die Quietly.” Rejected Princesses, www.rejectedprincesses.com/princesses/takeko-nakano.

“9 Female Warriors Who Made Their Mark On History.” Mental Floss, 5 Mar. 2017, mentalfloss.com/article/59287/9-female-warriors-who-made-their-mark-history. 

“Nakano Takeko.” The Female Soldier, thefemalesoldier.com/blog/nakano-takeko. 

“Nakano Takeko.” Badass Ladies of History, 10 June 2014, badassladiesofhistory.wordpress.com/2014/06/10/nakano-takeko/. 

“Takeko Nakano: The Samurai Who Refused to Die Quietly.” Rejected Princesses, www.rejectedprincesses.com/princesses/takeko-nakano.