Behind every great man…
is a great woman?
I was inundated with the above message for my entire upbringing. Our society continues to imply, if not implicitly state the above as a truism. Dreams of marrying a smart, rich man were discussed on playgrounds and during sleepovers. A woman should feel grateful for the opportunity to serve a great man.
Deprogramming is difficult and requires ongoing attention. Moving away from a paternalistic society was a shock to my senses. I continue to struggle with taking center stage. Many of the women in my life similarly struggle with taking up more space than men. As a historian, I am fascinated by the strong women who have lifted up their husbands, fathers, and sons. The strong, forward-thinking mothers, wives, and daughters who stood behind decent men and turned them into great men. Many of them, never receive recognition or acknowledgment.
Women like Edith Wilson, who helped Woodrow confront his racist upbringing and lead with more empathy.
Women like Rosalyn Kennedy, who became the matriarch of a powerful dynasty.
Women like my mom. Women like me.
We’ve spent time in the background because that is our assigned place. I’m going to shine a light on these stories and play a small part in reducing the shadows that hide 50% of humankind’s accomplishments.
