The Remarkable Bessie Blount: Unsung Inventor and Advocate

In this episode of 'She Changed History,' Simon and Vicky delve into the life of Bessie Blount, an extraordinary woman little known but with significant contributions. Bessie’s story, spanning from Virginia, USA, to Scotland Yard, is one of defiance, determination, and ingenuity. Born in 1914, Bessie overcame significant racial and educational barriers, teaching herself to read, write, and eventually becoming a nurse. During her work with World War II veterans, she invented life-changing devices for amputees, including a self-feeding device that gained international recognition. Despite the American government's rejection, her work was embraced by the French government and led to a series of further innovations in assistive technology. Bessie's later career saw her become a groundbreaking figure in forensic handwriting analysis, eventually working with Scotland Yard. Even after her professional career, Bessie continued to advocate for African American achievements and the disabled. Her inventions and transformational work, while not always glamorous, made a profound impact on countless lives.

00:00 Reunion and Birthday Celebrations

00:36 Introduction to Bessie Blount

02:33 Early Life and Education

05:57 Nursing Career and Challenges

07:37 Innovations for Disabled Veterans

12:46 Recognition and Continued Inventions

16:30 The Invention of the Kidney-Shaped Bowl

17:07 Exploring the Kidney Shape

17:51 Unsexy but Essential Inventions

18:53 From Nursing to Graphology

20:02 Becoming an Expert Witness

21:40 Consulting and Overcoming Barriers

26:02 Advocacy and Empowerment

27:57 Legacy and Final Years

29:49 Reflecting on Bessie's Impact

32:11 Closing Remarks and Call to Action

The Untold Heroism of Alice Milliat: Trailblazer for Women in Sports

Join Simon and Vicky in this riveting episode of Wonder Women, as they delve into the inspirational yet unsung story of Alice Josephine Marie Milliat. Born in 1884 in Nantes, France, Alice faced personal tragedies but found solace in sports, especially after moving to England. Despite resistance from the male-dominated sports world, spearheaded by the antagonistic Baron Pierre de Coubertin, Alice became a formidable force advocating for women's inclusion in the Olympic Games. Her relentless pursuit led to the establishment of the Women's Olympic Games, shaking the foundations of sexist barriers and paving the way for future generations of female athletes. Discover the groundbreaking efforts of Alice and her unwavering resolve that have impacted the world of sports, driving towards true equality. Tune in to learn about this incredible woman whose legacy still resonates today!

Sources:

• “Alice Milliat, Olympic Games pioneer, finally honored by Benoît Hopquin (Le Monde Fr) 2024
• Alice Milliat Foundation
• The Suffragettes of Sport – Alice Milliat and the rebel pioneers of 20th century women’s athletics by David Owen (Inside the Games) 2016
• The Suffragette of Sport: Alice Milliat by theinediblelifeofme (Stories of Her) 2020
• Summer Olympics 2024 Wikipedia

00:00 Introduction to Wonder Women

00:38 Vicky's Turn: A Story of Olympic Proportions

01:31 Meet Alice Josephine Marie Million

03:14 The Baron and the Birth of the Modern Olympics

06:09 Alice's Fight for Women's Inclusion in Sports

09:32 The Women's Olympic Games

17:30 Legacy and Ongoing Struggles

27:01 Conclusion and Future Stories

The Nightingale of India: Sarojini Naidu's Fight for Freedom and Equality

In this episode of 'She Changed History,' hosts Simon and Vicky discuss the inspiring life of Sarojini Naidu, known as the Nightingale of India. Sarojini was a poet, politician, campaigner, and a key leader in the Indian independence movement and universal suffrage. The conversation begins with Simon and Vicky's personal banter about an upcoming fancy dress party and moves into the historical narrative. Born into a well-educated and privileged family, Sarojini's views on British rule were initially favorable. Her time at Girton College, Cambridge, however, exposed her to the harsh realities of British sexism, leading her to question and ultimately oppose British imperialism. She met Gandhi and became a fervent disciple of his nonviolent resistance movement (Satyagraha), advocating for both Indian independence and women's rights. The episode covers key milestones in her life, including her poetry, political speeches, involvement in the Indian suffragette movement, and crucial role in the Salt March and Quit India Movement. Sarojini's journey from admiration for the British to a staunch advocate for Indian and women's rights exemplifies her bravery and unwavering commitment to justice.

● King’s College London Biography https://www.kcl.ac.uk/people/sarojini-naidu

● Article on Aljazeera by Nick Dall

https://www.aljazeera.com/features/2024/9/14/the-indian-poet-who-scared-white-south-africa-and-changed-it

● Cambridge University Library article by Jill Whitelock

https://specialcollections-blog.lib.cam.ac.uk/?p=28325

● Armstrong History Journal article by Madisyn Staggs

https://armstronghistoryjournal.wordpress.com/2021/04/20/from-poet-to-activist-sarojini-naidu-and-her-battles-against-colonial-oppression-and-misogyny-in-20th-century-india/

● Raman, Sita Anantha (2006). "Naidu, Sarojini".

00:00 Introduction and Casual Conversation

01:15 Introducing Sarojini Naidu: The Nightingale of India

03:27 Early Life and Education

06:36 Experiences in England and Changing Perceptions

12:05 Return to India and Entry into Politics

12:57 Advocacy for Women's Rights and Indian Independence

16:18 Challenges and Setbacks in the Fight for Suffrage

18:05 Colonial South Africa and the Indian Laborers

19:50 Indentured Labor and Gandhi's Arrival in South Africa

21:16 Gandhi's Transformation and Meeting with Sarojini

22:33 Sarojini's Political Journey and Non-Violent Resistance

26:25 The British Salt Monopoly and Gandhi's Salt March

33:41 The Quit India Movement and Sarojini's Role

37:01 India's Independence and Sarojini's Legacy

37:41 Reflections on History and Non-Violent Protest

41:52 Conclusion and Further Reading