Throughout history, we owe countless groundbreaking achievements to women who refused to accept limitations. The famous women in history featured below didn’t just break barriers they shattered them completely, creating paths where none existed before. These pioneers worked relentlessly in their unique ways to transform society and leave lasting legacies,
whether they stood at the forefront of revolutionary movements, represented their nations on global stages, or encouraged other women to embrace their voices fearlessly. Each brought their visionary ideas and exceptional abilities to fruition through unwavering commitment, genuine passion, and extraordinary determination.
This comprehensive collection of 51 famous women in history crosses multiple eras, cultures, and fields to showcase the remarkable breadth of female excellence. Our list celebrates women who shaped landmark legal decisions, created Oscar history, conquered new frontiers in aviation, and proved that age is no barrier to creating meaningful change in our world.
Continue reading to discover how these exceptional leaders, champions, performers, humanitarians, advocates, innovators, and other transformative women demolished glass ceilings and inspired women across the globe.
Maya Angelou
1928–2014
Through her profound poetry and her transformative memoir I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings, Angelou revolutionized literature and created opportunities for Black writers worldwide. Her passion for reading began during childhood when she experienced selective mutism for five years. Beyond her literary genius, she excelled as a performer, vocalist, scriptwriter, and champion for civil rights.
Lucille Ball
1911–1989
Though she brought undeniable joy to audiences in I Love Lucy, Ball wielded remarkable influence behind the scenes. She made history as the first woman to control a major television studio, Desilu Productions, transforming the entertainment industry forever.
Queen Elizabeth II
1926–2022
Queen Elizabeth II led the British monarchy for seven decades, establishing herself as the longest-serving sovereign in British history. She marked her Platinum Jubilee celebration in June 2022, merely three months before passing at 96 years of age.
Rosa Parks
1913–2005
Rosa Parks emerged as a pivotal leader during the 1950s Civil Rights Movement through her courageous refusal to surrender her bus seat to a white passenger. Her brave stand ignited the Montgomery Bus Boycott and proved instrumental in dismantling legal segregation. She maintained her activism throughout her remaining years before passing at 92.
Halle Berry
1966–present
Beyond her accomplishments as a gifted performer and style icon, 58-year-old Halle Berry carved out a unique place in cinema. In 2002, she achieved a historic milestone as the first Black woman receiving the Best Actress Oscar for Monster’s Ball. Two decades later in 2023, she presented this same honor to Michelle Yeoh, marking only the second woman of color to claim the award.
Amelia Earhart
1897–1939
As the pioneering female aviator to cross the Atlantic Ocean solo, Amelia Earhart transformed aviation permanently. Her enigmatic vanishing during a Pacific Ocean flight in 1937 has generated numerous theories, ranging from a tragic crash to survival on an isolated island.
Michelle Kwan
1980–present
Michelle Kwan, currently 44, ruled figure skating competitions during the 1990s, establishing herself as America’s most decorated figure skater. She proudly represented both the United States and Asian Americans internationally, securing 43 championship titles and two Olympic medals throughout her illustrious career.
Malala Yousafzai
1997–present
Malala Yousafzai, now 27, launched her campaign for girls’ educational rights in Pakistan at merely 11 years old. Following a near-fatal assassination attempt years later, she bravely maintained her position as a global advocate for young women. In 2014, she claimed the distinction of becoming the youngest Nobel Peace Prize laureate in history. In July 2025, she delivered a powerful speech in Tanzania focusing on girls’ education and debt reform, while in January 2025, she addressed the Muslim World League conference in Islamabad, discussing Afghan women’s rights and gender apartheid.
Rita Moreno
1931–present
At 93, Rita Moreno stands as a Hollywood icon. Her exceptional singing, dancing, and acting talents illuminated classics including Singin’ in the Rain (1952) and West Side Story (1961), establishing her as an unmatched triple-threat performer. In 1962, she became the first Latina woman claiming an Oscar. Fifteen years afterward, Moreno reached EGOT status—an achievement accomplished by only 21 individuals throughout history.
Ruth Bader Ginsburg
1933–2020
Ruth Bader Ginsburg created history as the first Jewish woman appointed to the Supreme Court. Her distinguished career witnessed numerous watershed moments in American society. Steadfastly championing gender equality and civil liberties, she contributed to historic decisions on matters including the Affordable Care Act and same-sex marriage legalization before her passing at 87.
Aretha Franklin
1942–2018
Possessing one of the most heavenly voices ever recorded and earning 18 Grammy awards, Aretha Franklin made classics like “Respect” and “I Say a Little Prayer” household anthems. In 1987, she achieved the distinction of becoming the first female performer inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.
Vera Wang
1949–present
Vera Wang, a first-generation Chinese-American fashion visionary, evolved into one of the world’s most cherished bridal designers. Before establishing her own label, the 75-year-old contributed her talents at Vogue and Ralph Lauren. In 2005, the Council of Fashion Designers of America honored her as Womenswear Designer of the Year.
Marie Curie
1867–1934
Marie Curie pioneered the scientific understanding behind radioactivity and X-ray technology as we recognize them today. She not only became the first woman to receive the Nobel Prize in 1903 but also made history as the first individual ever winning it twice in 1911.
Elizabeth Taylor
1932–2011
Classic Hollywood legend Elizabeth Taylor mesmerized audiences in productions like Cleopatra (1963) and Suddenly, Last Summer (1959). The two-time Best Actress Oscar champion also pioneered celebrity AIDS activism, establishing the Elizabeth Taylor HIV/AIDS Foundation in 1991.
Serena Williams
1981–present
Serena Williams, 44, dominated professional tennis for years, alongside her sister Venus—and motivated young female competitors worldwide. Boasting 23 Grand Slam singles championships and four Olympic gold medals, she concluded her career in September 2022 as one of the greatest players ever competing on court. In 2024-2025, Williams focused on her family, raising her two daughters, Alexis Olympia and Adira River, with husband Alexis Ohanian.
She hosted the 2024 ESPY Awards and launched her docuseries In The Arena: Serena Williams on ESPN+. In August 2025, Williams openly discussed her weight loss journey, revealing she lost 31 pounds using GLP-1 medication through the telehealth company Ro, where she now serves as a spokesperson. In December 2025, she dismissed comeback rumors after her name appeared on the International Tennis Integrity Agency’s testing registry, stating definitively, “I’m NOT coming back.”
Jane Austen
1775–1817
Jane Austen transformed English literature through her social observations in 1813’s Pride and Prejudice. Remarkably, her authorship of her initial three novels remained undisclosed until after her passing at 41.
Sally Ride
1951–2012
In 1983, Sally Ride achieved the distinction of becoming the first American woman traveling to space. She outperformed 1,000 competing applicants for a position in NASA’s astronaut training program and opened doors for numerous women like Mae Jemison following her trajectory.
Oprah Winfrey
1954–present
From 1986 through 2011, Oprah hosted her celebrated talk show, transforming her into an Emmy-winning media powerhouse and the first Black woman achieving billionaire status. Beyond her thriving magazine, television network, and production ventures, the 71-year-old remains a distinguished humanitarian and political advocate. Her current net worth stands at approximately $2.8 billion as of 2024. In December 2024, Oprah released her highly anticipated Favorite Things 2024 list featuring 116 American-made products supporting small businesses.
She also launched The Oprah Podcast in December 2024 in partnership with Starbucks, featuring monthly conversations with Oprah’s Book Club authors. In August 2024, she endorsed Kamala Harris at the Democratic National Convention and hosted the “Unite for America 2024” event supporting the campaign. Oprah continues her health journey, openly discussing her use of GLP-1 medication for weight management in early 2025.
Rachel Balkovec
1987–present
Rachel Balkovec, 37, created history in 2022 upon receiving her appointment as the first woman managing an MLB team affiliate. Before the New York Yankees selected her to oversee its Low-A Tampa Tarpons, she contributed as the organization’s minor league hitting instructor.
Princess Diana
1961–1997
The Princess of Wales’ fearless independence, revolutionary fashion choices, and devoted relationship with her sons made her a treasured royal family member. Princess Diana courageously discussed mental health and HIV awareness publicly and maintained support for various charities following her 1992 separation from then-Prince Charles. Five years later, she died in an automobile accident at 36.
Dolly Parton
1946–present
With 10 Grammy victories and 55 nominations, 79-year-old Dolly Parton built an enduring legacy in country music, yet the gifted singer creates enormous impact beyond performances. From advancing children’s literacy to contributing $1 million toward COVID-19 research, her charitable work has touched innumerable lives.
Katharine Hepburn
1907–2003
Katharine Hepburn’s on-screen performances were undeniably magnificent, yet she proved equally inspiring in everyday life. She pioneered actresses embracing menswear and trousers. Her fashion decisions encouraged contemporary women to confidently wear clothing providing genuine comfort.
Lizzo
1988–present
Through songs celebrating self-acceptance and body confidence, 36-year-old musician Lizzo has emerged as an inspiring figure in contemporary music. She’s additionally a classically trained flutist, frequently delighting her audiences with remarkable solos during performances.
Chloé Zhao
1982–present
Chinese filmmaker Chloé Zhao has collected numerous accolades for her directorial achievements on independent films, including Nomadland (2020). In 2021, the 42-year-old became the second woman and first woman of color claiming Best Director at the Oscars.
Ibtihaj Muhammad
1985–present
Fencing champion Ibtihaj Muhammad, currently 39, created history in 2016 as the first Muslim woman wearing a hijab representing the United States at the Olympics. That identical year, she secured a bronze medal and earned inclusion on TIME’s 100 Most Influential People list.
Barbara Walters
1929–2022
Anchoring renowned programs including 20/20, The View, and Today, Barbara Walters gained recognition as one of television’s most distinguished figures. She overcame tremendous obstacles by becoming the first female co-anchor of a network evening news broadcast, creating opportunities for women in journalism.
Sarah Thomas
1973–present
Sarah Thomas, 51, achieved the distinction of becoming the first full-time female NFL official in 2015, and her accomplishments have motivated women throughout sports industries. She subsequently became the first female on-field official in playoff history during 2019. Two years following, Thomas created history as the first woman officiating a Super Bowl.
Anna May Wong
1905–1961
As Hollywood’s first Asian American film star, Anna May Wong represented a revolutionary talent in every aspect. She courageously challenged racism and prejudice and appeared in over 50 productions. In 1960, one year before passing at 56, the performer became the first Asian American woman receiving a Hollywood Walk of Fame star.
Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis
1929–1994
As First Lady, Jackie Kennedy revolutionized the White House through restoring its historical elegance and acquiring art and furnishings owned by previous presidents. She additionally possessed extensive cultural knowledge and spoke fluent French, Spanish, and Italian, facilitating connections with international citizens and diplomats.
Barbra Streisand
1942–present
Beyond her magnificent voice and Grammy-winning achievements, 82-year-old Barbra Streisand opened doors for Jewish actresses in Hollywood. Her groundbreaking performances in Yentl (1983) and Funny Girl (1968) celebrated her heritage innovatively and in 1984, she became the first woman claiming Best Director at the Golden Globes.
Amanda Gorman
1998–present
At merely 22 years old, poet Amanda Gorman united and moved the nation through reading her poem “The Hill We Climb” at President Joe Biden’s inauguration in 2021. Four years earlier, she earned recognition as the first National Youth Poet Laureate of the United States. Currently, at nearly 27 years old, Gorman continues utilizing her poetry for social transformation.
Mother Teresa
1910–1997
Recognized as among the world’s greatest humanitarians, Mother Teresa devoted her entire existence to charitable service. She received the Nobel Peace Prize in 1979 and was posthumously canonized as Saint Teresa of Calcutta in 2016.
Junko Tabei
1939–2016
In 1975, mountaineer and adventurer Junko Tabei became the first woman summiting Mount Everest. She additionally became the first woman completing the Seven Summits climbing the tallest peak on every continent and even survived an avalanche.
Taylor Swift
1989–present
Shattering an astounding number of records, including becoming the first billionaire primarily through songwriting and performing, 35-year-old Taylor Swift has revolutionized the music industry and garnered 58 Grammy nominations and 14 victories throughout her career. Her groundbreaking Eras Tour concluded in December 2024, becoming the highest-grossing concert tour in history, earning over $2 billion. In January 2025, she received Billboard’s prestigious Top Artist of the 21st Century award. Swift announced her engagement to NFL star Travis Kelce in August 2025 and released her 12th studio album The Life of a Showgirl in October 2025. In 2019, following controversy surrounding her masters, she announced plans to re-record her first six albums in an empowering effort toward owning her creative work.
Ruth Handler
1916–2002
When Ruth Handler, a Mattel co-founder, invented the Barbie doll in 1959, she permanently influenced childhoods worldwide. Interesting fact: She named the dolls after her own children, Barbara and Ken.
Harriet Tubman
c. 1820–1913
A genuine American hero, Harriet Tubman guided enslaved people to freedom via the Underground Railroad. From 1850 through 1860, she completed 19 journeys from the South to the North, liberating more than 300 individuals. Tubman lived an extraordinarily long life, reaching approximately 93 at her passing in 1913.
Mazie Hirono
1947–present
Mazie Hirono served as Hawaii’s lieutenant governor between 1994 and 2002 before becoming a groundbreaking U.S. senator. She became the first female Asian American and Pacific Islander woman sworn into the Senate in 2013 and the chamber’s first Buddhist senator. The 77-year-old Democrat secured her third term following reelection victory in November 2024.
Selena Gomez
1992–present
From her extensive acting portfolio to her Grammy-nominated music, Selena Gomez has served as a role model for young women throughout the past decade. She openly discusses her personal challenges with mental health and lupus. Through her Rare Impact Fund, the 32-year-old has raised millions increasing mental health service access for young people. In September 2025, Gomez married music producer Benny Blanco in an intimate Santa Barbara ceremony attended by close friends including Taylor Swift, Steve Martin, and Paul Rudd.
The couple announced their engagement in December 2024 and released their collaborative album I Said I Love You First in February 2025. Their song “Bluest Flame” earned a Grammy nomination in November 2025 for Best Dance Pop Recording. Gomez’s net worth reached $1.3 billion in 2024, primarily from her Rare Beauty cosmetics brand, making her one of the youngest self-made billionaires.
Donyale Luna
1945–1979
Model Donyale Luna inspired the careers of Tyra Banks, Naomi Campbell, and numerous other beautiful Black supermodels following her path. In March 1966, she became the first woman of color appearing on British Vogue’s cover. At only 33 years old, Luna passed away in 1979.
Susan B. Anthony
1820–1906
Susan B. Anthony, a National Woman Suffrage Association co-founder, campaigned vigorously for gender equality and women’s voting rights. She tragically never witnessed her dream’s realization, as the 19th Amendment passed 14 years following her death in 1906.
Michelle Obama
1964–present
Michelle Obama, 61, remains the first and only Black first lady of the United States, serving during her husband Barack Obama’s presidency from 2009 through 2017. Her primary initiatives emphasized healthy living and education. In 2018, Obama announced her first major Obama Foundation project, the Girls Opportunity Alliance, empowering adolescent girls through education.
Hedy Lamarr
1914–2000
Hedy Lamarr was an Austrian-born American performer and inventor. Though best recognized for her Golden Age Hollywood work, she additionally co-invented a radio guidance system utilizing frequency-hopping technology for World War II communication. Lamarr gained induction into the National Inventors Hall of Fame 14 years after passing.
Toni Morrison
1931–2019
Nearly a decade after winning a Pulitzer Prize for her bestselling novel Beloved, Toni Morrison became the first Black woman receiving the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1993. She published 11 novels throughout her career, alongside a collection of plays, short stories, and nonfiction.
Meryl Streep
1949–present
A versatile and legendary film performer, 75-year-old Meryl Streep holds the record for most Academy Award nominations. Her 21 total nominations include an impressive 17 Best Actress nominations and four Best Supporting Actress nominations. Streep has claimed three Oscars for her performances in Kramer vs. Kramer (1979), Sophie’s Choice (1982), and The Iron Lady (2011).
Ida B. Wells
1862–1931
A pioneer in investigative journalism, Ida B. Wells proved instrumental in documenting lynchings throughout the American South. She authored two pamphlets, A Red Record: Lynchings in the United States and Southern Horrors: Lynch Law in All Its Phases, reporting on a combined 241 lynchings. Wells additionally worked as a sociologist, educator, and early civil rights movement leader.
Hillary Clinton
1947–present
A former first lady and lifelong public servant, Hillary Clinton created history as the first woman representing a major party in a presidential election during 2016. Despite losing the race, the now-77-year-old Democrat became the only woman winning the presidential popular vote.
Frida Kahlo
1907–1954
Among Mexico’s greatest artists, Frida Kahlo gained recognition for her magical realism contribution through a series of self-portraits painted following a near-fatal bus accident. Her paintings were displayed in Mexican and Parisian galleries less than one year before her passing in 1954.
Ada Lovelace
1815–1852
The daughter of British poet Lord Byron, Ada Lovelace is recognized as the first computer programmer. The exceptionally skilled mathematician authored the first algorithm for an early computer prototype called the Analytical Engine, designed by Charles Babbage.
Amal Clooney
1978–present
Amal Clooney is a British-Lebanese human rights attorney recognized for accepting high-profile cases, including representing whistleblowers and war crime victims while advocating for press freedom. The 47-year-old, married to film star George Clooney, has additionally served on multiple United Nations commissions and tribunals.
Gloria Steinem
1934–present
Even at 90 years old, Gloria Steinem remains a powerful force in the feminism movement. The celebrated journalist and political activist helped lead the Women’s Liberation Movement throughout the 1960s and 1970s. The pioneering feminist co-founded the National Women’s Political Caucus and Women’s Action Alliance, alongside Ms. Magazine, where she worked as editor for 15 years. In 2013, she received the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
Kamala Harris
1964–present
After breaking barriers in the U.S. Senate, 60-year-old Kamala Harris became the first woman serving as the nation’s vice president. She served second in command to President Joe Biden from 2021 through January 2025. Harris created history again in 2024 when she ran for president and earned the Democratic nomination, becoming the first Black woman and first Asian American woman becoming a major party’s presidential nominee. Following the November 2024 election, which she lost to Donald Trump, Harris announced in July 2025 that she would not run for California governor in 2026. She released her memoir 107 Days in late 2024, chronicling her presidential campaign experience. In November 2025, she actively campaigned for Democratic candidates including Aftyn Behn in Tennessee.
Women’s History
| Era | Key Achievements | Notable Figures |
| 19th Century | Women’s suffrage movement begins | Susan B. Anthony, Harriet Tubman |
| Early 20th Century | Women gain voting rights, enter workforce | Marie Curie, Amelia Earhart |
| Mid 20th Century | Civil rights movement, breaking entertainment barriers | Rosa Parks, Lucille Ball, Aretha Franklin |
| Late 20th Century | Professional sports dominance, political leadership | Serena Williams, Hillary Clinton, Ruth Bader Ginsburg |
| 21st Century | Technology innovation, global advocacy, billionaire entrepreneurs | Malala Yousafzai, Kamala Harris, Taylor Swift, Selena Gomez |
The famous women in history featured throughout this article represent merely a fraction of the countless women who’ve shaped our world. From scientific breakthroughs to artistic masterpieces, from political revolutions to social justice movements, women have consistently proven their capability to create extraordinary change despite facing tremendous obstacles.
These trailblazers didn’t simply wait for opportunities; they created them. They refused to accept “no” as a final answer. They persevered through discrimination, prejudice, and countless barriers that attempted limiting their potential. Their stories serve as powerful reminders that determination, courage, and unwavering commitment can overcome even the most formidable challenges.
As we witness in 2024-2025, these famous women in history continue making headlines and creating impact. From Selena Gomez’s billion-dollar beauty empire and marriage to Taylor Swift’s record-breaking achievements and Billboard recognition, from Serena Williams’ health advocacy to Kamala Harris’s continued political engagement, these women prove that their influence extends far beyond their initial breakthroughs. They adapt, evolve, and continue inspiring new generations while maintaining their commitment to excellence and social impact.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was the first woman to win a Nobel Prize?
Marie Curie became the first woman receiving the Nobel Prize in 1903 for her groundbreaking work in radioactivity, and she won it again in 1911, making her the first person ever to win twice.
Which woman has won the most Olympic medals in tennis?
Serena Williams secured four Olympic gold medals in tennis one in singles and three in doubles with her sister Venus establishing herself among the most decorated Olympic tennis athletes in history.
Who was the first female pilot to fly solo across the Atlantic?
Amelia Earhart achieved this historic feat in 1932, becoming the first female aviator crossing the Atlantic Ocean solo and revolutionizing aviation forever.
When did women get the right to vote in the United States?
The 19th Amendment passed in 1920, granting American women voting rights after decades of tireless campaigning by suffragettes like Susan B. Anthony and countless other activists.
Who was the first woman appointed to the U.S. Supreme Court?
Sandra Day O’Connor became the first woman appointed to the Supreme Court in 1981, followed by Ruth Bader Ginsburg in 1993, who became the first Jewish woman on the Court.
Which woman became the first female U.S. Vice President?
Kamala Harris made history in January 2021 as the first woman, first Black woman, and first Asian American woman serving as U.S. Vice President, serving until January 2025.
Who was the youngest Nobel Peace Prize winner?
Malala Yousafzai became the youngest Nobel Peace Prize recipient in 2014 at just 17 years old for her courageous advocacy of girls’ education rights, and she continues her activism today.
Final Thoughts
The extraordinary achievements of these famous women in history continue inspiring generations worldwide. Their courage, determination, and groundbreaking accomplishments remind us that gender should never limit anyone’s potential or dreams. From Maya Angelou’s powerful words to Kamala Harris’s political leadership, from Marie Curie’s scientific genius to Serena Williams’s athletic dominance, from Taylor Swift’s musical revolution to Selena Gomez’s entrepreneurial success, these women proved that excellence knows no boundaries.
As we celebrate their remarkable contributions in this moment of December 2025, we see how these famous women in history continue to evolve and create meaningful impact. Whether they’re launching new business ventures, advocating for social causes, breaking entertainment records, or living authentically while inspiring others, these famous females in history keep their legacies vibrant and relevant. Their stories aren’t just historical accounts, they’re living inspirations encouraging every woman and girl to dream bigger, reach higher, and never accept limitations.
The future belongs to those brave enough to pursue it, just as these remarkable women did throughout history and continue doing today. Their perseverance through challenges, their willingness to be vulnerable about struggles like health issues and weight loss, their celebration of personal milestones like marriages and new projects, and their unwavering commitment to using their platforms for good demonstrate that being a famous woman in history isn’t just about past achievements it’s about continuous growth, authentic living, and creating pathways for future generations to thrive.
Emma is an author at MeaningsSpot, where she crafts unique and inspiring names that spark creativity. With over 3 years of content writing experience, she specializes in making words meaningful and memorable.