Celebrating Women’s History Month with National Geographic Learning

In March, National Geographic Learning celebrates the inspiring achievements of women who have shaped history through their contributions as explorers, scientists, photographers, anthropologists, and authors. From research labs and classrooms to space missions and political movements, women have played a vital role in advancing knowledge and progress in our world. Women’s History Month provides a dedicated opportunity to reflect on their impact and honor the women who have paved the way for future generations.

At National Geographic Learning, we proudly celebrate by highlighting our expansive list of women authors who inspire, lead, and explore the history of our world. As a proud partner of the National Geographic Society, we proudly share resources from their free library that houses teaching materials for K-12 students.   

The History of Women’s History Month

Historically, women have played a pivotal role in shaping societies, yet their contributions were frequently overlooked. Traditional narratives often excluded women unless they held prominent positions such as queens. This trend began to shift in the 20th century with the advent of women’s history as a dedicated academic discipline, advocating for the recognition of women’s achievements and equal access to education.

In the United States, these efforts led to the establishment of National Women’s History Month, driven by advocates committed to ensuring women receive equitable representation. A significant milestone occurred in 1980 when President Jimmy Carter proclaimed the first National Women’s History Week, spanning March 2 to 8. By 1987, Congress extended this observance to the entire month of March, a tradition that continues today.

Recognizing Pioneering Women

Throughout Women’s History Month, the contributions of numerous influential figures have shaped United States History and the way of life for Women. Elizabeth Cady Stanton and Susan B. Anthony spearheaded the women’s suffrage movement, advocating for equal rights long before the 19th Amendment granted women the right to vote in 1920. Harriet Tubman, a formidable abolitionist, and Civil War spy led numerous enslaved individuals to freedom through the Underground Railroad.

Additionally, aviation pioneer Amelia Earhart was the first woman to fly solo across the United States, east to west, and the first woman to fly solo from California to Hawaii. Amelia’s great dream was to fly around the world. “Women, like men, should try to do the impossible,” she said by way of explanation.

Women Shaping the Present

Tara Roberts, a National Geographic Explorer and storyteller, documents efforts to locate and preserve sunken slave ships. Collaborating with African American researchers, marine archaeologists, and expert divers, the Diving with a Purpose initiative integrates maritime archaeology with conservation, ensuring these historical narratives are preserved. Through her work, Roberts aims to redefine the portrayal of Africans in the Americas, providing a more comprehensive and accurate historical perspective.

For more than six decades, Jane Goodall has been a leading figure in primatology and wildlife conservation. Her commitment to protecting chimpanzees and their natural habitats remains steadfast. Traveling approximately 300 days annually, she engages with government officials, corporate leaders, and local communities to advocate for wildlife preservation and the protection of critical ecosystems. 

Among contemporary leaders, National Geographic Explorer and esteemed marine biologist Sylvia Earle has devoted her career to ocean conservation. Recognized as one of the foremost experts in marine research, Earle has led over 100 expeditions, accumulated more than 7,000 hours underwater, authored over 200 scientific publications, and delivered lectures in 90 countries. 

Continuing the Celebration Year-Round

Women’s History Month serves as a powerful reminder of the profound contributions women have made—and continue to make—across diverse fields. By acknowledging their achievements, we ensure their legacies can inspire future generations to pursue their aspirations and effect meaningful change. 

In our National Geographic Learning | Cengage textbooks, e-Books, and online learning programs, we bring the world into the classroom and the classroom to life with our immersive materials. Our National Geographic Physics & Biology titles meet NGSS standards and highlight features from female authors and Explorers presenting their stories and backgrounds relevant to the learning content.  

Our Social Studies suite explores American history, world history, and beyond with diverse stories, project-based learning, and immersive learning options. Our recently extended partnership with Big Ideas Learning  cohesively teaches mathematics from kindergarten to grade 12 and focuses on equitable approaches to math education.  At National Geographic Learning, we encourage educators to celebrate Women’s History all year long. Explore the accomplishments of women in civil rights, science, conservation, geography, and so much more with featured National Geographic Explorers within our Social Studies and Science resources. To learn more about us, visit our  website today.

Join Live Events with National Geographic’s Explorer Classroom Series

Don’t miss the opportunity to celebrate powerful women live with your students in National Geographic’s  Explorer Classroom series. This month, Explorer Rosa Vásquez Espinoza showcases the importance of freshwater–from extreme water systems like the Peruvian Boiling River, Yellowstone’s acidic waters, and Alaska’s frozen lakes. National Geographic’s Explorer Classrooms are hosted all year long; these live interactive sessions connect young students K-12 with real National Geographic Explorers to hear the behind-the-scenes stories and interact with cutting-edge scientists, researchers, and powerful storytellers from around the globe. Your classroom might even have the chance to join the session on camera and ask questions. Learn more about these free, open-to-public events. 

References 

• “Amelia Earhart: A Life of Courage and Determination.” National Geographic, https://www.nationalgeographic.com/culture/article/Amelia-Earhart-praise-difficult-women-book-excerpt.

• “Diving with a Purpose.” National Geographic Education, https://education.nationalgeographic.org/resource/diving-purpose/.

• “Explorer Classroom: Rosa Vásquez Espinoza.” National Geographic Society, https://www.nationalgeographic.org/tickets/explorer-classroom/event/RosaVasquez1/.

• “Harriet Tubman Risked Everything to Save Enslaved Americans.” National Geographic, https://www.nationalgeographic.com/history/article/harriet-tubman-risked-everything-enslaved-americans.

• “Jane Goodall.” National Geographic Education, https://education.nationalgeographic.org/resource/jane-goodall/.

• “Real-World Geography: Sylvia Earle.” National Geographic Education, https://education.nationalgeographic.org/resource/real-world-geography-sylvia-earle/.

• “Susan B. Anthony: The Fight for Women’s Suffrage.” National Geographic, https://www.nationalgeographic.com/history/article/susan-b-anthony.

• “The 19th Amendment and Women’s Right to Vote.” National Geographic, https://www.nationalgeographic.com/culture/article/19th-amendment-womens-suffrage-voting.

• “Tara Roberts: Diving with a Purpose.” National Geographic, https://www.nationalgeographic.com/impact/article/tara-roberts-diving-with-a-purpose.