Wu Zetian was China’s first empress, which outraged men

‘BRAZEN’ | Excerpts from a forthcoming graphic novel highlighting women throughout history

(Pénélope Bagieu/Lily illustration)

In the weeks leading up to International Women’s Day, we will be sharing excerpts from “Brazen: Rebel Ladies Who Rocked the World,” by Pénélope Bagieu. In these illustrations, we’ll learn about space pioneers and queens, doctors and athletes.

This week, we’re bringing you a look at Wu Zetian, who fought for women’s rights and created her own dynasty.

Queen Nzinga demanded to be treated as an equal and refused to take a king

Las Mariposas broke barriers as the face of the Dominican revolution

Annette Kellerman advocated for practical female bathing suits and got arrested for it

How Giorgina Reid saved this national landmark

Frances Glessner Lee revolutionized forensic science by building mini crime scenes

Josephina Van Gorkum broke the rules by marrying a Protestant.

Bored by chores ‘for women,’ Lozen became a warrior to devote herself to her people