The Royal Armouries Museum has launched ‘Warrior Women’, a powerful podcast series highlighting six remarkable figures from history. Released on the eve of International Women’s Day, it challenges the myth that women were absent from the frontlines.
Each episode explores a central figure—warrior queen Lakshmi Bai, sword master diplomat Chevalier d’Éon, Soviet sniper Lyudmila Pavlichenko, SOE agent Vera Leigh, samurai Nakano Takeko, and Royal Marine Hannah Snell.
Funded by The National Lottery Heritage Fund, ‘Warrior Women’ delves into their struggles against subjugation, fascism, and colonialism, exploring themes of equality, oppression, and how history has shaped their legacies. It’s a powerful reminder of women’s enduring fight for their place in history.
The Royal Armouries, home to one of the world’s finest arms and armour collections, explores the weapons these six women wielded in battle. Often seen as a man’s domain, these tools take on new meaning in their hands. The series examines what it means to fight—and sometimes kill—for freedom, justice, and survival.
Hosted by Anna Ward, ‘Warrior Women’ goes beyond history, sparking conversations on women’s resilience in conflict and their lasting impact. “These stories echo the struggles women still face today,” said Anna. *“We invite listeners to rethink the past and its relevance to the present.”
Funded by The National Lottery Heritage Fund, the podcast brings these powerful narratives to life. “As we mark International Women’s Day and Women’s History Month, we’re thrilled to support the Royal Armouries in sharing these incredible stories,” said Helen Featherstone, Director, England, North.
