She then went to Paris to study mathematics and physics where she met her husband, Pierre Curie, a professor of the School of Physics. Together they investigated radioactivity and discovered a new chemical element, polonium. Marie and her husband were awarded the Nobel Prize for Physics in 1903, and she was awarded a second Nobel Prize for Chemistry in 1911. 

      I believe that Marie Curie is a great female figure in history to use to show students that women can be the first to be successful at something too. She experienced many obstacles, especially as a woman, but she still persevered and achieved many goals as a woman in a male-dominated field like science.

Learning Activity

      She served as a nurse’s aid during World War I in Canada where she spent time watching pilots in the Royal Flying Corps train. This is where she gained her love for aviation and started flying lessons with a female flight instructor in 1921. Earhart set numerous aviation records and was the first woman to fly a plane across the Atlantic Ocean, and the first person to fly over the Atlantic and Pacific. 

      I believe that Amelia Earhart is a great female figure in history to use to show students that women can be the first and be even more successful than men at something. From a young age Amelia participated in many male dominant activities, which did not discourage her. In fact, I believe it made her stronger and built her confidence up in order to become the amazing pilot that she was. Earhart is a role model for all students, especially young women interested in a male-dominated career. 

      Harriet became known as the “Moses of her people.” She escaped slavery in 1849 with the help of the Underground Railroad when she was around 27 years old. During her time as a “conductor” for the Underground Railroad she escorted over 300 slaves to freedom. Throughout all her years Tubman served as a scout, spy, guerrilla soldier, and Union Army nurse during the Civil War. In fact, she was the first woman to lead an armed military operation in the United States. 

      I believe that Harriet Tubman is a great female figure in history to show students that no matter the circumstances, women can still be strong leaders and achieve many firsts. Harriet is an amazing role model for not only young girls, but young African American girls. She is the true definition of a leader and it is important for young girls to know that you can achieve anything no matter your gender or race.