Women Who Changed History

Though it took until 2016 for the United States to nominate a woman for president, women in other countries ruled centuries earlier. In 1558, Elizabeth I ascended England's throne at the age of twenty-five. Despite inheriting a country torn by financial crisis and religious differences, she became one of the greatest monarchs in English history. Her reign was so notable that it is known as the Elizabethan Age. This enthralling narrative of Elizabeth I, her rule, and her impact on European history will engage even the most reluctant readers.

Women's contributions throughout history are often overlooked or minimized when compared to those of men. Readers will learn the true story of Malinche, a slave girl who was instrumental in the Spanish conquest of Mexico. Her courageous but brief life is examined, focusing on her time with explorer Hernán Cortés. Myth and fact are discussed and explained, with primary sources to illustrate this period in Mexican history. Readers will connect with the story of a young person who bravely endured terrible circumstances to change Mexico forever in the 1500s. Her legacy in Mexico, folklore, art, and politics endures today.

Many school-aged children are familiar with the story of Pocahontas. Yet most accounts of this Native American icon-gleaned from sources such as fables and animated feature films-are rife with inaccuracies. This title emphasizes the truth behind the embellishments, examining how an Indian princess first befriended early American colonists and then became an influential contributor to their survival and well-being. Readers also get a meaningful glimpse into life in the Jamestown colony, as well as the customs and traditions of Algonquin society.

Harriet Tubman has become perhaps the most well-known African American in American history. Readers will learn about how the determined Tubman made her own destiny, using the Underground Railroad to return to the South nineteen times to bring her family and hundreds of others to safety. This lively text describes the intense physical hardships she faced, as well as the constant threat of capture, as she fought for freedom, gave speeches, and worked as a Civil War nurse, cook, and spy.

Even centuries after her death, Joan of Arc remains both deeply admired and mysterious. This title recounts her rise from obscurity as the daughter of a tenant farmer to military leadership in the French campaigns against the British in the Hundred Years' War. It also highlights a strong woman embracing a destiny that, ultimately, meant sacrificing her own life for her faith and nation. The story of this unflinching leader-who remains a French national hero-during an era when women had far fewer freedoms than they do today makes for a lively, informative, and inspiring resource.

Cleopatra is one of the most dynamic figures of ancient history-a powerful, brilliant queen who's cunning, ambition, and boldness not only brought her to Egypt's throne but also into alliances and conflicts with Julius Caesar, Mark Antony, and the Roman Empire itself. Although her desperate bid for power may have ended in tragedy, it fueled centuries of stories about her. Cleopatra's life and legacy are illuminated in this attractive, eye-catching guide chock-full with lively prose, impeccable research, and engaging features. Learn about a woman whose real life story rivals the most exciting works of fiction.