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Norah O’Donnell, a veteran journalist and anchor, is shedding light on the often-untold stories of women who profoundly shaped American history. Her new book, “We the Women,” set to be released Tuesday by Ballantine Books, aims to correct a historical imbalance and introduce readers to “hidden heroines” whose contributions have been largely overlooked. O’Donnell’s journey to uncover these stories began with a personal realization: despite a strong education, her understanding of women’s impact on the nation’s past was surprisingly limited.
“I went to a good, large, public high school in Texas; I went to Georgetown University,” O’Donnell explained. “And yet, my own understanding of women’s contribution to American history has been limited.” This realization sparked a deep dive into the past, revealing a wealth of remarkable women whose achievements deserve recognition. The book promises to challenge conventional narratives and offer a fresh perspective on American history, focusing on the resilience and ingenuity of women throughout the nation’s development.
One of the earliest figures O’Donnell highlights is Mary Katharine Goddard, a Baltimore printer who boldly signed the first official printing of the Declaration of Independence. “There’s a woman’s name on the Declaration of Independence,” O’Donnell stated. “And remember too, putting your name on the Declaration of Independence was treasonous.” At the Museum of the American Revolution in Philadelphia, the “Goddard Broadside” – the printed document bearing her name – serves as a tangible reminder of her revolutionary act. Matthew Skic, director of collections and exhibitions at the museum, emphasized Goddard’s significance, stating, “It’s showing that she has her own business. It’s showing that she is a revolutionary, just like John Adams, just like John Hancock.”
The book doesn’t shy away from acknowledging the long struggle for women’s rights. O’Donnell recounts how, on July 4, 1876, suffragists like Elizabeth Cady Stanton and Susan B. Anthony were denied a speaking slot during America’s centennial celebration. In response, they “stormed the stage” armed with a “Declaration of the Rights of Women,” demanding recognition and the right to vote. Despite their courageous efforts, it would take another 44 years – until 1920 – for women to secure the right to vote nationwide.
Beyond the Vote: A Legacy of Firsts
“We the Women” extends beyond the fight for suffrage, celebrating a diverse range of pioneering women. The book profiles Babe Didrikson, considered the first female sports superstar; Frances Perkins, the first woman to serve in a presidential cabinet; and Constance Baker Motley, the first Black woman to argue a case before the Supreme Court. O’Donnell illustrates how Motley’s groundbreaking career paved the way for future generations, including Ketanji Brown Jackson, who reportedly drew inspiration from Motley’s story as a young girl.
O’Donnell also reflects on her own experiences with sexism in the media industry, recalling an instance during a job interview at CBS News where she was questioned about her ability to balance work and motherhood – a question she noted was never posed to male candidates. She ultimately became the second woman to solo anchor the “CBS Evening News,” following Katie Couric, and acknowledges the importance of representation in news leadership. Currently, the three major network evening news broadcasts are all anchored by men, a situation O’Donnell believes should change.
A New Generation and the Future of Progress
Despite past challenges, O’Donnell expresses optimism about the future, observing a shift in attitude among younger women. “Younger women don’t apologize or wait for the men to finish speaking in a room. They just speak,” she noted. “They just say what needs to be done, and they do it efficiently, clearly, authoritatively, collaboratively, and then their record stands on its own.” This confidence and directness, she believes, signal a significant step forward.
“We the Women” serves as a powerful reminder of the contributions of women throughout American history and the ongoing necessitate to recognize and celebrate their achievements. As O’Donnell demonstrates, understanding the past is crucial for shaping a more equitable future. The book’s release comes at a time when discussions about gender equality and representation are more prominent than ever, making its message particularly timely and relevant.
Readers interested in learning more about the stories within “We the Women” can discover additional information and excerpts here.
