Mary Wollstonecraft is often regarded as the catalyst for Western Feminism, hence her nickname as its ‘mother’. Her revolutionary book ‘Vindication of the Rights of Women’ altered the future of women in the West. Not only did it attack the existing patriarchy, but it pushed for a more equal society and encouraged the recognition of women as valuable assets, just as much as men were.
Ancient Egypt was known for its iconic female rulers, however, the upper strata of society were still dominated by men. Female rulers could only come to power through exceptional circumstances, such as acting as regents in the stead of their infant sons.
Throughout history, women have often played a pivotal but underappreciated role in political resistance. Traditional gender norms of the mid-20th century placed women in less political roles; they were subservient housewives. In reality, many women have been crucial in the fight against totalitarian regimes, the Mirabals illustrating as such.
When we think of xenophobia, often we are susceptible to oversimplifying it, without considering the intersectionality of gender and race. Historically, antisemitism has largely existed within a repressive hetero-normative framework of gender identity and sexuality. Considering Antisemitism in Victorian England then, it’s important to take on a gendered perspective, looking at the relationship between Judeophobia and conceived ‘masculinity’.
Whenever anyone imagines the “Wild West” certain images are always conjured up. A heroic gun-toting cowboy (probably John Wayne), a grand stallion, free in the desert plains, delivering justice, saving the girl. These Hollywood visions are increasingly resisted. Historians of the American West are recovering the stories of marginalised groups and individuals, helping us understand the way of life and identity of the “real Wild West”.
