Celebrating International Women's Day with Extraordinary French Women!

Today, as we are celebratingInternational Women's Day, we would like to reflect on some of the most influential French women of the last century. This is our pick for five extraordinary French women who changed the course of French history and influenced the world.

1. Marie Curie. A naturalized French citizen, Marie Curie went on to have an extraordinary scientific career. She was the first female recipient of a Nobel prize, the first female to receive a Nobel prize twice and the only person to win a Nobel prize in two scientific fields. To learn more about Marie Curie, you may consider the bookMadame Curie, a biography.
2. Edith Piaf. Born in Paris, Edith Piaf become the voice of a generation. Know as the "little Sparrow" after her last name, she grew up in very humble and even difficult conditions and was able to become one of the biggest singing stars in France. She become a symbol of hope for France during World War II. To learn more about Edith Piaf, you may consider the book:No regrets. The life of Edith Piaf.
3. Josephine Baker: Another singer, the American born Josephine Baker had a profound influence in French culture in the 20th century. Her career as an actress, singer and dancer is only part of her legacy. She played a big part in the civil right movement helping to break down racial barriers. She also worked with the resistance during World Word II. To learn more about Josephine Baker, you may consider the book:Agent Josphine.
4. Simone de Beauvoir: Simone de Beauvoir was a writer and philosopher but is remembered as one of the biggest name in France when it came to the feminist movement. Her work became an inspiration for millions of women to fight for gender equality. To learn more about Simone de Beauvoir, you may consider the book:Simone de Beauvoir, a biography.
5. Berthe Morisot: Few women had as much of an impact as Berthe Morisot in the ranks of impressionist painters. A member of the circle of men painters in Paris, her paintings depicted scenes of everyday life in the nineteenth century with an emphasis on women's experience. For more on Berthe Morisot, you may consider the book Berthe Morisot.

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