The Women Who Fought Sexual Predators With Their Hatpins

They had to defend themselves against unwanted advances

Charles Dana Gibson’s illustration of the Iconic Gibson Girl with her hair pinned up and hatpins to keep her hat in place; Source: Atlas Obscura

At the turn of the 20th century when women gained more independence, they had unrestricted access to anywhere they wished to go. At this time, they could afford to leave home unaccompanied and walk around without escorts.