Recorded July 2024 (One of our first ever episodes!)

Althea Gibson: A champion against the odds

In this episode, hosts Simon and Vicky dive into the inspiring life and career of Althea Gibson, the first Black woman to win a Grand Slam tennis tournament. They explore her challenging upbringing in a sharecropping family, her move to Harlem, and the various obstacles she overcame due to segregation and racism. Despite numerous barriers, Gibson excelled in tennis, winning prestigious titles like Wimbledon and the US Open, and becoming a trailblazer for future generations. The episode also touches on the societal context of her era, her subsequent efforts to mentor young athletes, and her lasting legacy in the world of sports.

Book referenced: I always wanted to be somebody, Gibson (1958)

00:00 Getting Started: Introduction and Excitement
00:29 Introducing Althea Gibson
02:56 The Harsh Realities of Sharecropping
04:42 Althea's Early Life and Move to Harlem
08:38 Discovering Paddle Tennis
12:08 Rising Through the Ranks
13:27 Breaking Barriers in Tennis
15:23 The Hidden Barriers in Tennis
15:56 Modern Voter Suppression Tactics
16:17 A Heated Debate on Voting Systems
18:31 Althea Gibson's Historic Invitation
19:29 Triumphs and Challenges Abroad
20:44 Dominating the Grand Slams
23:14 The Harsh Realities of Amateur Tennis
26:23 A Legacy Beyond Tennis
29:50 Honoring Althea Gibson's Impact
31:28 Closing Thoughts and Call to Action

The Remarkable Reign of Queen Zenobia: Defying Rome and Commanding an Empire

Got a story? Emails us at shechangedhistory@gmail.com

Other episodes mentioned today: Ching Shih and Empress Matilda

In this episode of 'She Changed History,' we dive into the extraordinary story of Queen Zenobia of Palmyra, who lived nearly 2000 years ago. Zenobia challenged the might of the Roman Empire, expanding her territory. Known for her intelligence, strategic prowess, and diplomatic skills, she led her army with unmatched determination and gained significant power despite the constraints of her time. However, her ambition eventually caught the attention of the Roman Emperor Aurelian, leading to a series of bloody battles. The episode highlights the historical significance of women in leadership roles and aims to correct the often beauty-focused narrative surrounding women in ancient history.

Sources today are:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Odaenathus
https://www.worldhistory.org/Crisis_of_the_Third_Century/
https://www.britannica.com/place/Syria/Hellenistic-and-Roman-periods
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Silk_Road
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mzBbpCG7gvM Zenobia the Warrior Queen of the Palmyrene Empire
https://www.worldhistory.org/article/1692/roman-armor--weapons/
https://www.worldhistory.org/Crisis_of_the_Third_Century/
https://warfarehistorynetwork.com/article/zenobia-queen-of-palmyra/
https://www.worldhistory.org/zenobia/
https://althistory.fandom.com/wiki/Zenobia_(Vastator_Orbis)

00:00 Introduction and Greetings
00:15 Celebrating Women in STEM
01:12 Introducing Queen Zenobia
03:14 Zenobia's Early Life and Heritage
04:49 Marriage and Rise to Power
10:34 Zenobia's Leadership and Influence
14:41 The Crisis of the Third Century
16:59 Zenobia's Expansion and Military Campaigns
17:43 March to Roman Egypt
18:52 Zenobia's Tactical Maneuvers
20:38 Diplomacy and Expansion
25:25 Aurelian's Response
28:36 The Final Battles
33:10 Zenobia's Capture and Legacy
34:57 Reflection on Women in History
37:59 Closing Remarks

Elizabeth Garrett Anderson: Pioneering Doctor and Women's Rights Advocate

Got a story? Emailed shechangedhistory@gmail.com

In this episode, we delve into the life and achievements of Elizabeth Garrett Anderson, the first woman to qualify as a doctor in the UK. Despite the societal and institutional barriers of the Victorian era, Anderson's determination and intellect allowed her to pave the way for women in medicine. She established the New Hospital for Women and played a crucial role in the women's suffrage movement. Her story exemplifies resilience, challenging the status quo, and the importance of providing opportunities. Join us as we explore her lasting legacy in both the medical profession and women's rights.

Previous episodes we talk about here: Sarojini Naidu

00:00 Excitement for the Counter Strike Tournament
00:34 Welcome to the Velour Studio
01:19 Introducing Elizabeth Garrett Anderson
02:40 Early Life and Education
03:48 Challenges in Victorian Medicine
08:40 Breaking Barriers in Medical Education
13:38 Founding the Dispensary and Hospital
17:53 Challenges of Establishing a Women's Hospital
18:39 Combining Skills for Social Reform
20:24 Training the Next Generation of Female Doctors
20:50 Confronting Sexism in Medicine
24:42 Advocacy for Women's Rights and Suffrage
30:54 Legacy and Continued Influence
34:01 Modern Reflections and Personal Insights
37:00 Conclusion and Call to Action