Historical Events tagged with "women"

Turns out history loves a label—battles, breakthroughs, and the occasional disaster, all neatly tagged for your browsing pleasure. Because sometimes you just need every weird invention in one place.

Politics & Government

Orapin Chaiyakan Becomes Thailand's First Female MP

June 5th, 1949 75 years ago

Orapin Chaiyakan was elected as the first female member of Thailand's Parliament, marking a significant milestone in Thai politics. Her election represented a breakthrough for women's representation in government, reflecting the gradual changes in societal attitudes toward gender roles in the post-war period. Chaiyakan's victory inspired many women to participate in politics and challenged conventional views on women's capabilities in governance.

Continue Reading
Military & Warfare

First Female Recruits Join Women's Air Force

July 8th, 1948 76 years ago

The United States Air Force accepted its first female recruits into a program called the Women's Air Force (WAF), marking a significant milestone in military integration. The program began with 1,000 women, paving the way for their involvement in various military roles. This initiative aimed to utilize women's skills during peacetime and establish a separate women's branch within the Air Force. It set a foundation for future gender integration in military service, reflecting evolving societal norms regarding women's roles.

Continue Reading
Religion & Philosophy

Mother Francesca S. Cabrini Canonized as Saint

July 7th, 1946 78 years ago

Mother Francesca S. Cabrini was canonized as the first American saint by the Roman Catholic Church. This significant event took place in Vatican City, where Pope Pius XII declared her a saint in recognition of her dedicated service and missionary work. Cabrini, who founded the Missionary Sisters of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, had a profound influence on education and immigrant welfare in the United States during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Her canonization recognized her life of charity and devotion, serving as a beacon of hope for many.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

French Women Cast Votes for the First Time

October 21st, 1945 79 years ago

The 1945 French legislative election marked a significant change in the political landscape of France, as women were allowed to vote for the first time. This pivotal moment was made possible by the ordonnances of 1944, granting women suffrage rights. French women participated actively in the elections, exercising their right to vote and stand as candidates. The engagement was essential for shaping the future of the French Republic, as women brought new perspectives to political discussions and decisions.

Continue Reading
Social Movements & Civil Rights

Lotta Svärd Movement Disbanded in Finland

November 23rd, 1944 80 years ago

The Lotta Svärd movement, a women's paramilitary organization in Finland, was officially disbanded following the armistice treaty that ended the Continuation War. Established in 1918, the organization played a significant role during the Second World War by supporting Finnish troops through various activities such as logistics and medical care. Its dissolution marked the end of a notable era in Finnish women's military involvement and was part of the broader shifts occurring within Finland's political landscape post-war.

Continue Reading
Social Movements & Civil Rights

French Women Gain the Right to Vote

October 5th, 1944 80 years ago

In 1944, the Provisional Government of the French Republic officially enfranchised women, granting them the right to vote and stand for office. This significant decision recognized women's contributions during World War II and aimed to integrate them fully into the political sphere. The movement for women's suffrage had gained momentum throughout the 20th century, and this law marked a turning point in France’s history regarding gender equality. The change was celebrated nationwide as a crucial step toward equal rights.

Continue Reading
Exploration & Discovery

Amy Johnson's Disappearance Over the River Thames

January 5th, 1941 84 years ago

Amy Johnson, a pioneering British aviator, disappeared after bailing out of her aircraft over the River Thames during World War II. Johnson, known for being the first woman to fly solo from London to Australia, had been serving in the Air Transport Auxiliary. Despite extensive search efforts, she was never found, leading to her presumption of death.

Continue Reading
Social Movements & Civil Rights

Execution of Thirteen Roses in Madrid

August 5th, 1939 85 years ago

Thirteen female members of the Unified Socialist Youth were executed by Francoist forces in Madrid. Among them were notable activists such as Carmen Rivas and Gloria Lasso. This event arose from the intense political repression following the Spanish Civil War, as the Franco regime sought to eliminate opposition. The executions were carried out on a desolate night, highlighting the regime's brutality towards dissident voices.

Continue Reading
Religion & Philosophy

Regina Jonas becomes first female rabbi

December 27th, 1935 89 years ago

Regina Jonas was ordained as the first female rabbi in 1935, marking a significant milestone in Jewish history. Her ordination took place at a progressive rabbinical seminary in Berlin, Germany. Jonas faced considerable opposition in a male-dominated field, yet she persevered, driven by her belief in the importance of women in religious leadership. Her work and commitment to Jewish education set the stage for future generations of female rabbis, contributing to evolving gender roles in religious practices.

Continue Reading