The contribution of women in society has often been downplayed or ignored throughout history because of a lack of social status, confinement to the home and the idea that women are lesser than men.
The struggle for universal women’s suffrage, the incredible effort of the women left behind during times of conflict and the roles they took on and contributions to the arts, sciences and more have all been largely glossed over.
Blue Plaques for women
As of 2020, it was recorded that only 14% of Blue Plaques marking notable individuals in history were dedicated to women. Since then, English Heritage has been working to erect new palques to honour the women that made history.
Here are some of the women's names you can find in London.
Millicent Fawcett
Leader of the suffragists
2 Gower Street, Bloomsbury, London
Marie Tussard
Wax Artist
24 Wellington Road, St John's Wood, London
Mary Shelley
Writer
24 Chester Square, Belgravia, London
Eleanor Rathbone
Politician
Tufton Court, Westminster
Vivien Leigh
Actress
54 Eaton Square, Belgravia, London
Elizabeth Garrett Anderson
Doctor
20 Upper Berkeley Street, Marylebone, London
Emmeline Pankhurst
Leader of the Suffragettes
50 Clarendon Road, Notting Hill, London
See a full list of blue plaques dedicated to women here.
Find out about the achievements of women and turn history to herstory here.