Wicked Witches of History: 7 Badass Women Who Changed the World
At Wicked Women, we celebrate the unapologetic, bold, and rebellious spirit in every woman. Throughout history, countless women have defied societal expectations, broken down barriers, and changed the world—often at great personal cost. These women, sometimes labeled as “witches” or worse, refused to be silenced. Their legacy is a powerful reminder that true strength lies in embracing who you are and standing up for what you believe in.
Here are seven badass women from history who embody the fierce, independent, and fearless energy we celebrate at Wicked Women.
1. Joan of Arc (1412–1431)
Joan of Arc, a teenage girl who led French forces to several key victories during the Hundred Years’ War, stands as one of the most iconic figures of history. With no formal military training, she claimed to have been guided by visions from saints urging her to support Charles VII and recover France from English domination.
Joan dressed in men’s armor, wielded a sword, and led soldiers into battle. Her defiance of gender norms and her unapologetic sense of purpose eventually led to her capture and trial. Labeled a heretic and witch, she was burned at the stake at just 19 years old. But her legacy endured, and she was later canonized as a saint. Joan of Arc’s fierce courage and belief in her mission make her a true representation of the indomitable spirit Wicked Women celebrates.
(Joan of Arc (Joanna d’Arc), Jan Styka, 1922, oil painting,https://www.polishmuseumofamerica.org/joan-of-arc-jan-styka/)
2. Marie Laveau (1801–1881)
Marie Laveau, the legendary Voodoo Queen of New Orleans, was a woman of immense power, influence, and mystery. As a free woman of color in 19th-century Louisiana, she rose to become the most famous—and feared—Voodoo practitioner in history. Her knowledge of healing, spiritual practices, and powerful connections to local government and society made her a force to be reckoned with.
Laveau was known for her ability to unite different communities, both rich and poor, white and Black, through her Voodoo rituals. People from all walks of life sought her guidance, from politicians to everyday citizens. She used her power not only for spiritual practices but also to help the sick, the enslaved, and the oppressed. Marie Laveau’s bold, mystical leadership made her an icon of feminine strength, and her spirit continues to influence New Orleans culture today.
(Marie Laveau, https://alterreny.com/blogs/news/marie-laveau-the-enigmatic-voodoo-queen-of-new-orleans)
3. Joan Ruth Bader Ginsburg (1933–2020)
Few women in modern history have wielded the kind of influence that Ruth Bader Ginsburg, fondly known as RBG, did. As a trailblazing lawyer and Supreme Court justice, Ginsburg spent her life fighting for gender equality, civil rights, and justice for all. She became a cultural icon, known for her sharp wit, immense intellect, and unwavering commitment to defending the underrepresented.
Her landmark work on gender discrimination transformed the legal landscape in the United States. From the 1970s onward, Ginsburg fought in courtrooms and at the Supreme Court for women’s rights, advocating for a world where all individuals, regardless of gender, could achieve their full potential. Known for her quiet ferocity and dissenting opinions, Ginsburg embodied the power of persistence and resilience. Her legacy continues to inspire women worldwide to stand up for justice and equality.
(https://wmst.fandom.com/wiki/Ruth_Bader_Ginsburg)
4. Cleopatra (69 BCE–30 BCE)
One of history’s most famous queens, Cleopatra ruled over ancient Egypt and wielded political power with an unrivaled combination of intelligence, charisma, and ambition. While often remembered for her romantic liaisons with Julius Caesar and Mark Antony, Cleopatra’s true legacy lies in her astute political strategy and leadership.
She was fluent in several languages, fiercely protected Egypt’s independence, and worked tirelessly to strengthen her kingdom. Cleopatra’s downfall came not from her lack of power but from being a woman in a world dominated by men who feared her influence. She died by her own hand rather than submit to Rome’s forces, securing her place as a ruler who lived and died on her own terms.
(https://www.asmalldoseoftoxicology.org/cleopatra)
5. Ursula Southeil (c. 1488–1561)
Ursula Southeil, more commonly known as Mother Shipton, was a renowned English prophetess and soothsayer who has been called the “English Nostradamus.” Her prophecies, which include references to events such as the Great Fire of London and the rise of modern technologies like airplanes and submarines, have earned her a mysterious and legendary status.
Living during a time when women were often accused of witchcraft, Mother Shipton evaded persecution despite her mystic reputation. She lived independently, relying on her visions and herbal remedies to aid her community. Her prophecies gained widespread attention and were later published, securing her a place in history as one of the most famous female seers. Mother Shipton’s foresight and refusal to conform to societal norms make her a fitting icon of the unapologetic energy we celebrate at Wicked Women.
(https://www.historic-uk.com/CultureUK/Mother-Shipton-Prophesies/)
6. Boudica (c. 30 AD–60 AD)
Boudica, queen of the Iceni tribe in ancient Britain, led a fierce uprising against the Roman Empire after her people were brutalized by the occupying forces. After Roman soldiers flogged her and violated her daughters, Boudica rallied the tribes of Britain in a revolt that saw them burn several Roman settlements to the ground, including modern-day London.
Though her rebellion ultimately failed, Boudica’s ferocity in battle and refusal to be subdued left an indelible mark on history. She is remembered as a symbol of resistance against oppression and one of the earliest female leaders to wage war for freedom.
(https://www.historyskills.com/classroom/ancient-history/boudicca/)
7. Malala Yousafzai (1997–Present)
Malala Yousafzai, a modern-day icon of courage, was just a young girl when she began advocating for girls’ education in her native Pakistan. Her outspoken defiance of the Taliban’s ban on education for girls led to an assassination attempt when she was 15. Shot in the head, Malala miraculously survived and went on to become a global advocate for girls’ rights and education.
In 2014, at the age of 17, she became the youngest-ever recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize. Malala’s activism and fearlessness in the face of extreme adversity show that no matter your age, standing up for what’s right can change the world.
(https://cypp.rutgers.edu/office/malala-yousafzai/)
Embrace Your Inner Wicked Woman
Each of these women, in her own way, embodied the spirit of rebellion, courage, and unapologetic authenticity that we champion at Wicked Women. They refused to be silenced, stood tall in the face of adversity, and left an undeniable mark on history.
At Wicked Women, we believe that every woman has the power to channel this same energy in her own life. Whether through bold fashion choices, fierce self-expression, or simply living authentically, we encourage you to embrace your inner witch and leave your mark on the world—just like these seven badass women.
Witch or warrior, leader or lover—being a Wicked Woman is about living unapologetically, authentically, and powerfully. So, what’s your legacy going to be?
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