Chinese Women in History – Celebrating Women’s History Month and International Women’s Day

Chinese women in history

In March, we celebrate Women’s History Month and International Women’s Day. It’s an opportunity to honor the achievements of Chinese women in history. Some of these female role models left an indelible mark in the world and some keep inspiring us.

From diplomatic icons to pioneering scientists to incredible artists, these change-makers have paved the way for us and future generations. Children need to know their stories of resilience, creativity, and leadership.

Here are six inspiring female Chinese figures in history. You can guide your children to connect, explore, and be curious about them. Please keep in mind that there are many more prominent female role models. Children can use this list as a starting point to make comparisons and identify the significance of the work they do.

I’ve included resources for further reading at the end.

Song Mei-ling (宋美龄) – A Diplomacy Icon

Song Mei-ling was a prominent figure in the Chinese diplomatic scene, both in China and later in Taiwan, the Republic of China. Born in 1898, she was also known as Madam Chiang Kai-shek (jiāng fú reń 蔣夫人), the first lady of the Republic of China (Taiwan). She attended Wellesley College in the United States. Beyond her political role, Song Meiling was deeply involved in social and welfare projects and played a significant role in Sino-American relations during World War II. Her eloquence, intelligence, and dedication to her country and its diplomacy make her a timeless icon of strength and leadership.

Explore TIME magazine’s Person of the Year A Photo History of 1937.

Chien-Shiung Wu (吴健雄) – The First Lady of Physics

Chien-Shiung Wu, born in 1912, was a pioneering physicist. She was known for her groundbreaking contribution to the field of nuclear physics. Her experimental work disproved the Law of Conservation of Parity, challenging established scientific principles and prompting a reevaluation of fundamental laws of nature. Wu’s resilience in a male-dominated field and her innovative research earned her the nickname “The First Lady of Physics.” She has been inspiring countless women to pursue careers in science.

Book Recommendation: “Queen of Physics: How Wu Chien Shiung Helped Unlock the Secrets of the Atom” by Teresa Robeson

Maya Lin – A Visionary in Memorial Architecture

At just 21 years old, Maya Lin designed the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C. It was a testament to her vision and creativity. Lin’s design, selected from over 1,400 submissions, revolutionized the concept of memorial architecture. Her work, characterized by its simplicity and emotional depth, serves as a bridge between the past and the present, inviting reflection and healing for generations to come.

Born from her childhood fascination with space and nurtured, Maya Lin emerged as a true visionary artist-architect. You can learn from   “Maya Lin: Artist-Architect of Light and Lines” by Jeanne Walker Harvey

Michelle Yeoh – A Trailblazer in Cinema

Michelle Yeoh made history by being the first Asian actor to win an Oscar for best actress. Yeoh is known for her martial arts expertise. However, she was initially trained in ballet. She started ballet at age 4. Due to an injury, she paused ballet and later pivoted to acting. Her first camera work was a commercial with Jackie Chan. Yeoh does most of her stunts. It is very impressive. Have you watched the movie, “Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon” 臥虎藏龍• 卧虎从龙 or the recent Netflix original “The Brothers Sun” 孫家兄弟• 孙家兄弟 (rated MA – not for kids) yet?

Her Oscar-winning film, “Everything Everywhere All at Once” broke stereotypes and highlighted the representation of Asian women in the international film industry. Yeoh is multilingual, she speaks Malay, Cantonese, Mandarin, and English. Interested in learning more about Asian Americans in film?

Book Recommendation: “The Golden Screen: The Movies That Made Asian America” by Jeff Yang, a New York Times bestselling author.

Teresa Teng (邓丽君) – The Voice of Asia

Teresa Teng, commonly known as Teng Li-Chun (鄧麗君 • 邓丽君), is a beloved Chinese music and cultural icon who captivated audiences across Asia and beyond for nearly 30 years until her passing in 1995. Her enchanting voice with melodies and heartfelt lyrics resonated deeply with listeners, earning her widespread adoration. Teng’s music transcended borders, touching the hearts of people not only in Taiwan but also in Mainland China. Her songs, such as “何日今再來• 何日君再来-When Will You Come Again, and many more, served as a symbol of connection during a time of strained relations across the Taiwan Strait, fostering connections despite travel restrictions between the two regions.

The song in the video here is “月亮代表我的心 The Moon Represents My Heart.” It reached Jon Bon Jovi and here is his singing of the song in Mandarin.

Lin Huiyin (林徽因) – A Pioneer in Chinese Architecture and Literature

Lin Huiyin, born in 1904, was a remarkable architect, writer, and scholar. As one of the first female architects in modern China, Lin played a crucial role in preserving Chinese architectural heritage. Her literary works imbued with depth and sensitivity, contribute significantly to our understanding of China’s cultural and historical landscape.

Recognized as a pioneering woman who forever changed Chinese architecture, Lin Huiyin faced numerous challenges in a society where women were not treated equally. Alongside her husband Liang Sicheng (梁思成), considered the father of modern Chinese architecture, Lin overcame the limitations of their time. Together, they bridged the gap between East and West, blending traditional values with modern aspirations. Their shared mission was to inspire future architects to honor tradition while embracing innovation. (Source: Rebuilding Chinese Society Through Architecture – The Story of Lin Huiyin)

Additionally, Lin Huiyin was honored with the title “The Most Talented Woman of the Era” in a book, further recognizing her remarkable contributions to Chinese society.

Discovery & Curiosity with Kids

After exploring the brief stories of these inspirational Chinese women in history, share your thoughts:

1. What impression do you have of these iconic figures?

2. Why is it important to celebrate the diverse contributions of Chinese women in history to society?

3. Similarities and Differences: Name a couple of iconic female figures in where you are or in the U.S. who have similar contributions to society.

4. Learn about the background of International Women’s Day with the United Nations.

5. Explore the Women’s History Month (Chinese) and more (English)

What do people say…

On March 8, International Women’s Day – in Chinese, it is called ” fùnǚ jié 婦女節 • 妇女节.”  You will hear people use this greeting in Mandarin:  sān bā fùnǚ jié kuài lè 三八婦女節快樂 • 三八妇女节快乐. This greeting’s literal translation in English is “Happy Third Eight Female Day.” Can you figure out why?