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When Charlotte Brontë wrote Jane Eyre, her own tribute to female equality, in 1847, she had a lot of inspiration to draw on. Even as far back as 40-something B.C. women were proving that they weren’t second-class citizens. Check out this timeline to discover how Jane Eyre fits into the mix of world history’s strong women and their feminist agendas.

Video Transcription:

Up next: The history of feminism in the modern world. In 60 seconds!

40-something B.C. …

Cleopatra, a student of philosophy and international relations, uses her influence—and child-bearing powers—to keep her country free. Didn’t work out in the end, but she tried.

The 1400s …

Joan of Arc wears pants! She also leads France’s army to victory against England. Then she’s burned at the stake. Men of that time had no respect.

The 1700s …

Catherine the Great deposes her husband, orchestrates his death, and declares herself sole ruler of Russia. OK, the girl made some mistakes, but she also supported reforms in law and education.

1839 …

In Boston, Margaret Fuller begins hosting conversations for women who are concerned about women’s rights. You go girl!

1848 …

Lucretia Mott and Elizabeth Cady Stanton organize the Seneca Falls convention. Women and men as equals—what a concept!

1920 …

Susan B. Anthony’s amendment—giving women the right to vote—is signed into law.

Shoot! Back up a minute! I forgot to mention that in 1847, Charlotte Bronte’s feminist manifesto is published. It’s called Jane Eyre.