Celebrated women travelers in 19th Century

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The mid to late 19th century and early 20th witnessed an extraordinary number of European and American female travelers who wrote of their adventures. Industrialization had increased women’s mobility and women more easily could travel by train and streamer. As important, by end 19th century, European imperialism had made many areas of the world “safe” for women travelers. Annie Taylor, first European woman to enter Tibet, stated after she was captured, “I am English and do not fear for my life!” While many female travelers were married, a significant number were not, a situation very different from the women in most of the world where single status and the right to live and travel alone would not be tolerated. The reasons women offered for their explorations varied. Some reve...

Last updated: February 22, 2012