Teenage Girls Throughout History: What Lessons Can Teens Learn Today?
Women's History Month was founded in the United States in 1987 following the lobbying efforts of the National Women's History Project, now known as the National Women's History Alliance. It originated from a week-long celebration of women's contributions to history, which was first observed in 1978 in Sonoma County, California. The push for a national recognition of women's history gained momentum, leading Congress to pass a resolution designating March as Women's History Month.
Today, Women's History Month serves as a crucial reminder of the ongoing struggle for gender equality and recognition of women's achievements in all spheres of life. It provides a platform for highlighting the diverse experiences, voices, and contributions of women from different backgrounds and cultures. Additionally, it encourages continued advocacy for women's rights and serves as a catalyst for positive change in addressing gender disparities worldwide.
Adult female figures who made history are easy to name - think Susan B. Anthony, Mother Teresa, Amelia Earhart, and more. But, what about the teenage girls that made history? And, what can we learn from these teens? Read on for My Time Counseling’s best lessons for teens from girl teen history-makers!
Teenage Girls Who Made History #1: Sacagawea
Sacagawea was a Lemhi Shoshone teen who played a pivotal role as an interpreter and guide for the Lewis and Clark Expedition in the early 19th century. Her knowledge of the land, language skills, and resilience proved invaluable in the success of the expedition's journey across the Western United States. Three lessons teenage girls can learn from Sacagawea include:
1. Assertiveness in using one's voice: Sacagawea's willingness to speak up and share her knowledge and insights, despite societal expectations of women during her time, teaches the importance of asserting oneself and contributing to meaningful discussions and decisions.
2. Courage to embrace new experiences: Sacagawea embraced the opportunity to explore unfamiliar territories and engage with diverse cultures, showing courage in confronting the unknown and adapting to different situations.
3. Value of cooperation and communication: Sacagawea's role as an interpreter and mediator highlights the importance of effective communication and collaboration, emphasizing the power of cooperation in achieving common goals and overcoming obstacles.
Teenage Girls Who Made History #2: Mary Shelley
Mary Shelley was a renowned English novelist best known for her groundbreaking work "Frankenstein; or, The Modern Prometheus," published in 1818, though she began writing it when she was just 18. Through her masterpiece, Shelley established herself as a pioneer of science fiction. From Mary Shelley, teen girls can learn:
1. Creativity knows no bounds: Mary Shelley's imaginative storytelling and creation of "Frankenstein" at a young age show that creativity has no limitations and can be a powerful outlet for expression.
2. Embracing individuality and uniqueness: Shelley's unconventional life and literary contributions emphasize the value of embracing one's uniqueness and resisting societal norms or expectations.
3. The power of empathy and compassion: Through her characters and narratives, Shelley delved into complex human emotions and moral dilemmas, highlighting the importance of empathy and compassion in understanding others and navigating ethical decisions.
Teenage Girls Who Made History #3: Malala Yousafzai
Malala Yousafzai is a Pakistani activist and advocate for girls' education who gained international prominence after surviving an assassination attempt by the Taliban at the age of 15. Her courageous advocacy and unwavering commitment to education have made her a symbol of resilience and inspiration for girls worldwide. From Malala, teen girls can learn:
1. The power of education: Malala's unwavering commitment to education despite facing grave dangers underscores the transformative power of education in empowering individuals and communities.
2. Courage to speak out: Malala's fearless advocacy for girls' rights to education in the face of adversity teaches the importance of speaking up for what one believes in, even when faced with opposition or threats.
3. The value of perseverance: Malala's perseverance in pursuing her goals despite facing setbacks and challenges serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of perseverance in achieving one's aspirations and making a difference in the world.
In conclusion, teen girls can learn several lessons from other female teen figures throughout history, such as creativity, leadership, communication, commitment to values, and more. If you need to talk to someone, we’re here for you. At My Time Counseling, we specialize in counseling for teens. Reach out to us today to see what we’re about!
