THIS BOOK TELLS the stories of twenty-five women, from the dawn of civilization to the present day, who bent the arc of history by what they did at the defining moment in their lives. At this critical juncture, they had a choice—taking the
safe, or least risky, option—or challenging the status quo. They wielded the sword, seized political power, or challenged societal norms and laws—and transformed society contrary to all cultural dictates. Some women were virtual saints, others were more ruthless than any man of their age. One even instituted the first police state in history.
These women all faced enormous odds. The social norms of their time were so pervasive and insular that every touchpoint in society bullied them as social media bullies women today—especially those who dare to be different—not for difference’s sake, but to make a difference in their brief time on this planet. To the woman, they responded to challenges, setbacks, and disappointments by redoubling their efforts. We can learn from—and be inspired by—their lives and their grit, and their mistakes. To read their stories is to see ourselves anew.

JAN-BENEDICT STEENKAMP is Massey Distinguished Professor at the University of North Carolina, where he teaches the popular course Leadership Lessons from History to (E)MBA students. He is ranked in the top 0.1% of scientists in the world. He is the author of Time to Lead: Lessons for Today’s Leaders from Bold Decisions that Changed History, which was a finalist for a major history award. He has given executive seminars to organizations on every continent, including the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, the U.S. Air Force, and the U.S. Naval Postgraduate Academy. His work has been featured in media around the world.
Website: https://www.jbsteenkamp.com; LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jbsteenkamp/