In the latest episode of Iron Maidens, host Bevin Goldsmith uncovers the often-overlooked history of women in combat. From medieval battlefields to modern warfare, this episode highlights the resilience and courage of female warriors who shaped military history.
The episode opens with Aethelflaed, the Warrior Queen of Mercia, who led armies and fortified her kingdom against Viking invasions. Her military genius was crucial to England’s unification, proving women’s integral role in warfare. Listeners then meet Joan of Arc, the fearless French leader who defied societal norms to lead troops to victory.
Bevin also explores the stories of Deborah Sampson, who disguised herself as a man to fight in the American Revolution, and Dr. Mary Edwards Walker, a pioneering Civil War surgeon. Their determination shattered gender expectations and paved the way for future generations.
The episode highlights Harriet Tubman’s role as a Union spy, Lyudmila Pavlichenko’s deadly accuracy as a WWII sniper, and Maria Oktabisky, a tank driver seeking revenge against the Nazis. These stories showcase the relentless strength of women in combat.
Modern-day heroines include Sharon Lane, the only American female nurse killed in the Vietnam War, and Tammy Duckworth, a helicopter pilot who became a symbol of resilience. Captain Nicola Goddard, the first female Canadian soldier killed in Afghanistan, exemplifies the evolving role of women in the military.
This episode of Iron Maidens is a powerful tribute to fearless women who have fought alongside men, proving that courage knows no gender. Tune in to honor their legacies and celebrate the warriors history tried to forget.
