Women have long been underrepresented in politics and decision-making roles, but that doesn’t mean there haven’t been women who have made significant political and historical accomplishments. These groundbreaking women in politics have broken down societal barriers, made strides for gender equality, and helped shape the world today.
From former UK Prime Minister, Margaret Thatcher, to the first female Speaker of the United States House of Representatives, Nancy Pelosi, these groundbreaking women have made an indelible mark on history and should be given their deserved recognition.
History on Women in Politics
Before we go into who the groundbreaking women in politics are, let’s take a brief look at the history of women in politics.
In ancient societies, politics was largely closed to women. Ancient Greece, for example, was strongly patriarchal and women were not allowed to vote, hold public office, or even leave their homes unaccompanied. But women didn’t just sit idly by, as evidenced by Cleopatra, Egypt’s last ruling Pharaoh, and the cult of female political figures that surrounded her.
The Middle Ages saw slightly more progress with women in politics, although most women’s power was relegated to the role of the Queen or Princess. During the era of Women’s Suffrage, from 1848 until the 19th Amendment was passed in the United States in 1920, women wanted the right to vote and took to the streets in protest all over the world. Women’s power in the political world has steadily increased since then, especially with the rise of the Women’s Movement in the 1960s and the achievement of record numbers of women in office today.
Groundbreaking Women in Politics
So who are the groundbreaking women in politics? Read on to find out about some of the most inspirational and powerful women who have made a difference in the political world.
Aung San Suu Kyi
The Nobel Peace Prize recipient, Aung San Suu Kyi is an icon of democracy in her country of Myanmar. Aung San Suu Kyi has a long and distinguished history in politics, having been elected to the House of Representatives in 2012, following her release from house arrest. Her inspiring fight for freedom, human rights, and democracy have made her a symbol of strength and courage to many around the world.
Margaret Thatcher
The former Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, Margaret Thatcher, is another example of a pioneering woman in politics. Thatcher was the first female prime minister of the United Kingdom and served from 1979-1990. During her leadership, she was known for her pro-business stance and tough leadership.
Barbara Jordan
Barbara Jordan was another American woman in politics who made history. She was the first African-American woman to serve in the Texas Senate and the first African-American to give the keynote address at the Democratic National Convention in 1976. She was also the first woman and African-American to chair the U.S. House of Representatives’ Judiciary Committee.
Indira Gandhi
Another chosen example of a groundbreaking woman in politics is Indira Gandhi, the former Prime Minister of India. While there have been several female prime ministers in India, none have had as long a tenure as Indira Gandhi. She was a powerful and usually divisive leader and served as the leader of India for 15 consecutive years.
Nancy Pelosi
Nancy Pelosi became the first female Speaker of the United States House of Representatives in 2007. Prior to that, Pelosi was only the second woman ever to serve as Minority Leader. A member of the Democratic Party, Pelosi has had a long and distinguished career in politics and has strived to promote the rights of women and children in her home state of California and throughout the United States.
As this list shows, despite centuries of discrimination, women have been breaking down societal barriers and making strides in the world of politics. From Aung San Suu Kyi, to Margaret Thatcher and Nancy Pelosi to Indira Gandhi, these groundbreaking women are inspiring role models for us all. Women in politics have come far, but there is still much to be done for gender equality. The political accomplishments of these women demonstrate that anything is possible and that it never too late to begin making a difference.
