10 Revolutionary Historical Figures Who Transformed Society
Even while Tik Tok and Instagram are both relatively new creations, and we would conceive of today’s influencers as having millions of followers on both platforms, the job of an influencer is not so unique to the twenty-first century. In reality ,decades before social media ever existed ,trend-setters set the pace for the styles, appearances ,and clothing that hundreds to thousands of others imitated.
10 Revolutionary Historical Figures Who Transformed Society
Ambrose Burnside held a variety of positions throughout his life ,including governor of Rhode Island, US senator for the state of Rhode Island ,and Union commander during the American Civil War. It may not come as a surprise that Burnside became a trendsetter because a man with so many roles is bound to connect with people. Burnside was required to keep a clean-cut appearance while at West Point ,but he nevertheless managed to add sideburns to customize his appearance. From his days as a student to his years as a senator, the hair on either side of Burnside’s face that connected the hair on his head to his mustache stood out conspicuously. Burnside may not have been the first to wear his distinctive look, but thanks to his notoriety as a general and politician and to coincidence with the discovery of photography, the sideburns were very common. Burnside was even given credit for giving his sideburns their original name—burnsides—because they were so recognizable.
Ambrose Burnside
Here are some key aspects of his life:
Military Service: Ambrose Burnside served in the United States Army ,Particularly during the American Civil War. He started as a Colonel and rose to the rank of major general. He is best known for his leadership during the Battle of Antietam ,where he commanded a corps of Soldiers for the Union Army.
Facial Hair Style: Burnside was famous for his distinctive facial hair ,known as “sideburns”, which became popularized with this style after him.
Invention: Apart from his military service, Burnside also had an inventive side. He designed a Breech-loading rifle, known as the Burnside carbine ,which saw use during the Civil War.
Political Career: After the Civil War ,Burnside pursued a political career.He Served as the Governor of Rhode Island from 1866 to 1869 and later as a U.S. Senator from 1875 to 1881.
Later Years: Burnside’s political career continued until his death in 1881. He passed away in Bristol, Rhode Island, and was buried in Swan Point Cemetery in Providence.
Amelia Bloomer
Figures and voices that had previously been marginalized entered the public attention in 1848 as women in the United States sought greater involvement in governance through the Seneca Falls Convention. The Lily, a newspaper supporting women’s rights and temperance problems, was started by convention participant Amelia Bloomer one year after the event.Bloomer had developed into a vocal supporter of women’s rights by 1853, particularly with regard to dress codes and clothing reform. Bloomer began wearing full-cut pantaloons under her skirt in public because she found that the corsets and skirts that women her age were obliged to wear were too constricting and possibly unsafe. Despite the fact that other women wore the pantaloons before Bloomer, she became known as bloomers thanks to her vociferous support for them in The Lily.
Here are some key aspects of his life:
Amelia Bloomer (1818-1894) was an American women’s rights Advocate and social reformer. She is best known for Popularizing a new Style of Clothing for Women that came to be known as “Bloomers.”
In the mid-19th century ,women’s clothing was restrictive and impractical ,consisting of multiple layers of heavy skirts and corsets. Amelia Bloomer was inspired by the ideas of the women’s rights movement and the need for women to have more comfortable clothing that allowed greater freedom of movement.
In her publication, “The Lily,” which she started in 1849, Amelia promoted the concept of wearing loose-fitting trousers gathered at the ankles which were modeled after Turkish and Persian clothing styles. These trousers, paired with a knee-length skirt ,were known as “bloomers.” The bloomers became a symbol of the early feminist movement and were seen as a statement against the restrictive and uncomfortable clothing norms of the time.
It’s important to note that Amelia Bloomer did not invent the bloomer-style clothing, but she played a significant role in popularizing it and advocating for its adoption by women. Her efforts in promoting more practical and comfortable clothing for women contributed to the ongoing discussions about gender equality and women’s rights during that era.
William Dorsey Swann
William Dorsey Swann was an African American man Who lived during the 19th and early 20th Centuries and is notable for his Involvement in LGBTQ+ history. He is Widely regarded as one of the first known drag Queens and LGBTQ+ activists in the United States. While the specific details of his life might be limited
Here is an overview of his known activities and achievements:
Early Life: William Dorsey Swann was born around 1858 ,likely in Maryland, USA. As an enslaved person, he endured significant hardships during his early life.
Emancipation: Following the Civil War and the abolition of slavery ,Swann gained his freedom. Like many other formerly enslaved individuals ,he moved to Washington ,D.C. ,where he began to build his life.
Drag Balls: In the late 1800s and early 1900s ,Swann started hosting drag balls in Washington ,D.C. These events were held in secret due to the social and legal discrimination against LGBTQ+ individuals during that time.
“The Queen”: As a prominent figure in the underground drag scene, Swann was affectionately referred to as “The Queen” by those who attended his drag balls. His balls were attended by a diverse group of people ,including other LGBTQ+ individuals ,cross-dressers ,and allies.
Activism and Advocacy: Through his drag balls and gatherings, Swann provided a safe space for LGBTQ+ individuals to express themselves freely. He actively advocated for the rights and dignity of the LGBTQ+ community ,which was an incredibly brave act during a period of intense prejudice and discrimination.
Legal Troubles: The secretive nature of the drag balls eventually caught the attention of law enforcement. In 1888, one of Swann’s balls was raided by the police, resulting in the arrest of Swann and several attendees. The charges included “keeping a disorderly house,” a common accusation used against LGBTQ+ gathering places.
Court Proceedings: Swann’s trial was a significant event as it was one of the earliest recorded instances of the legal system prosecuting individuals for participating in LGBTQ+ events. He and others arrested during the raid faced serious consequences.
Aftermath: Despite facing legal challenges and the social stigma of the time, Swann continued to support and advocate for the LGBTQ+ community. His resilience and defiance in the face of discrimination contributed to the early LGBTQ+ rights movement
Queen Elizabeth I
In the mid-16th century smallpox ravaged many households, and royalty was no exception. After Queen Elizabeth I of England contracted the illness in 1562, she was left with scars that could have been easily visible to the naked eye. Starting the trend of wearing makeup to cover up blemishes or other perceived flaws on the face, Elizabeth I concocted a white mixture made of lead and vinegar that she applied routinely. While Elizabeth’s makeup served the more practical purpose of concealing her scars, it also became a metaphorical facade. She was England’s most powerful woman and thus under constant scrutiny, and her white makeup became a mask to protect her from both admirers and adversaries. Still, it was not long before Elizabeth’s makeup—and other distinctive features and fashions—heavily influenced Elizabethan standards of beauty. A white face began to symbolize youth and wealth, since it meant never having needed to work in the sun.
Some of the key aspects of her reign include:
Establishing Protestantism: Elizabeth I was a Protestant and worked to consolidate the English Reformation initiated by her father ,King Henry VIII. She sought to reconcile various religious factions and create a stable religious settlement through the Act of Supremacy and the Act of Uniformity.
Defending England: Elizabeth faced numerous threats to her realm ,both internally and externally. She navigated the turbulent waters of international politics ,particularly with Catholic powers like Spain. Her victory over the Spanish Armada in 1588 is considered one of her greatest accomplishments and bolstered England’s reputation as a maritime power.
Encouraging the Arts: Elizabeth’s reign is often referred to as the Elizabethan era ,a period of flourishing arts and culture. She supported famous playwrights and poets such as William Shakespeare ,Christopher Marlowe, and Edmund Spenser, contributing to a golden age of English literature.
Maintaining Political Stability: Elizabeth was skilled at managing her court and surrounding herself with capable advisors like Sir Francis Walsingham and Sir Robert Cecil. Her ability to balance competing factions and ensure relative political stability contributed to a prosperous and peaceful period for England.
Cultivating an Iconic Image: Queen Elizabeth I was known for her distinctive appearance, often depicted with elaborate dresses, white makeup, and red wigs. Her image became a symbol of the era’s power and beauty.
Remaining Unmarried: Elizabeth famously never married or had children, earning her the nickname “The Virgin Queen.” This decision allowed her to maintain political independence and prevented the emergence of a strong foreign alliance through marriage
Madame Wellington Koo
Oei Hui-lan, known as Madame Wellington Koo, held the esteemed position of the first lady of the Republic of China from late 1926 to 1927. However, her influence extended beyond her role in politics. Madame Koo’s distinct sense of style gained as much attention as her fame. One of her remarkable contributions to Chinese fashion was her popularization of the qipao, also known as the cheongsam. The qipao has a rich history, evolving from a loose-fitting garment worn by the upper class to a form-fitting dress with a side slit, thanks to Madame Koo’s influence. She made this elegant attire accessible to women from all social backgrounds. Madame Koo’s reinterpretation of the traditional Chinese dress solidified her position as a revered fashion icon in Chinese history.
She also had notable achievements of her own.
Prominent Philanthropist: Madame Wellington Koo was actively involved in various philanthropic activities, dedicating her time and efforts to charitable causes. She supported initiatives focused on education, healthcare ,and social welfare ,contributing to the betterment of Chinese society.
Women’s Rights Advocate: Madame Koo was an advocate for women’s rights and empowerment in China. During a time when women’s roles were often limited ,she worked tirelessly to promote gender equality and opportunities for women in various fields ,including education and public service.
Cultural Ambassador: With her refined upbringing and education ,Madame Koo acted as a cultural ambassador ,representing Chinese culture and tradition to the world. She used her international connections to foster cultural exchange and understanding between China and other countries.
Contributions to Diplomacy: As the wife of a diplomat, Madame Koo played a crucial role in supporting her husband’s diplomatic endeavors. She hosted diplomatic events and engaged with foreign dignitaries, contributing to the strengthening of international relations between China and other nations.
Academic Pursuits: Madame Wellington Koo was highly educated and well-versed in multiple languages. Her academic achievements and linguistic abilities allowed her to be an active participant in various intellectual circles, promoting cross-cultural dialogue and understanding.
Literary Works: She authored several books and essays on topics ranging from diplomacy and international affairs to cultural exploration and her personal experiences. Her literary contributions helped shed light on China’s perspective during a critical period of global history.
Queen Victoria
Long before the iconic wedding dresses of Kate Middleton and Diana Spencer, another royal figure left an indelible mark on the world of weddings by establishing a lasting tradition. Queen Victoria, with her highly publicized wedding, not only set a wedding trend but also initiated a wedding tradition. While Queen Victoria’s white off-the-shoulder lace dress was not the very first white wedding dress, her wedding’s widespread publicity and her own fame as a monarch elevated the white wedding dress to a new standard for brides. The Victorian era is often associated with strict moral values and societal expectations of women’s purity, so it is understandable that Victoria’s white wedding dress came to symbolize purity. However, it’s important to note that Victorian England was a society divided by class, and the choice of white for Victoria’s dress could also indicate her wealth. White attire is more prone to stains, necessitating expensive cleaning services. Although Queen Victoria’s 1840 wedding was not captured in photographs, it became a topic of global conversation, even sparking the excitement of renowned author Charles Dickens. Newspaper accounts describing her snow-white wedding dress circulated widely, and as synthetic fabrics became more accessible and affordable, the tradition established by Queen Victoria gained momentum. To this day, white wedding dresses continue to be immensely popular among brides.
Some of her most notable accomplishments include:
Longest Reign: Queen Victoria’s reign lasted for an Impressive 63 years and 216 days ,making her the longest-reigning Monarch in British History until Surpassed by Queen Elizabeth II in September 2015.
British Empire Expansion: During her reign, the British Empire expanded significantly ,reaching its zenith. This expansion saw the Incorporation of territories in Africa ,Asia ,the Caribbean ,and the Pacific ,making the British Empire the largest empire in History.
Industrial Revolution: Queen Victoria presided over the height of the Industrial Revolution, a period of significant economic ,technological ,and social advancements in Britain. This era saw the rise of factories, steam-powered machinery ,and innovations that transformed the nation’s economy and society.
Cultural Influence: Queen Victoria’s reign was marked by a flourishing of arts ,literature ,and culture, often referred to as the Victorian era. Many famous authors and poets ,such as Charles Dickens and Alfred Lord Tennyson, produced notable works during this time.
Royal Albert Hall and Albert Memorial: In memory of her beloved husband ,Prince Albert ,who died in 1861 ,Queen Victoria played a Crucial role in the establishment of the Royal Albert Hall and the construction of the Albert Memorial in London.
Modernization of Monarchy: Queen Victoria worked to modernize the British monarchy ,making it more accessible to the public and reinforcing the idea of a constitutional monarchy with the monarch’s role as a symbolic figurehead.
Coco Chanel
Renowned French designer Coco Chanel is celebrated for her numerous groundbreaking contributions to fashion, including the little black dress, the women’s suit, and the quilted purse. However ,one of her lesser-known but significant influences lies in a beauty trend that has become commonplace today: tanning. In the past ,particularly in the United States and Europe, individuals of higher social standing would go to great lengths to avoid any form of skin coloration. For instance ,during the time of Queen Elizabeth I ,white makeup was used to achieve a pale complexion as a tan was associated with a life of outdoor labor ,while fair skin symbolized a luxurious indoor lifestyle focused on socializing and leisure. In 1923 ,when Coco Chanel was photographed with a tan while leaving a yacht in Cannes ,France ,tanning not only gained acceptance but also became a symbol of beauty. Given Chanel’s influential status in the world of fashion ,it was only natural that many people would seek to emulate her sun-kissed skin. Chanel further reinforced the idea of a tan as a beauty ideal by featuring tanned models in one of her fashion shows a few years later.
she took during her lifetime that made her famous:
Early Life: Coco Chanel ,born Gabrielle Chanel on August 19 ,1883 ,in Saumur ,France ,grew up in an orphanage after her mother’s death. She learned sewing skills there, which laid the foundation for her future career in fashion.
Early Career: In her early twenties, Chanel worked as a cabaret singer and a seamstress in a dress shop. She began creating and selling her own hats, which gained popularity among influential people in the Parisian society.
Opening her First Boutique: In 1910, Coco Chanel opened her first millinery (hat-making) boutique at 21 Rue Cambon, Paris. Her designs were characterized by simplicity, elegance, and the use of luxurious materials.
Introduction of Clothing Line: Chanel expanded her fashion offerings to clothing and introduced her first women’s sportswear line in 1913. Her designs broke away from the corseted and restrictive fashions of the time, embracing comfort and functionality.
The Little Black Dress: In 1926 ,Chanel introduced the iconic “little black dress”, revolutionizing women’s fashion by creating a versatile and timeless wardrobe staple.
Chanel No. 5: In 1921, Chanel launched her famous fragrance ,Chanel No. 5 ,which remains one of the most popular and enduring perfumes in the world.
Chanel Suit: Coco Chanel introduced the classic Chanel suit in the 1950s, characterized by its slim-fitted silhouette ,bouclé fabric ,and gold chain embellishments.
Chanel’s Return: After temporarily closing her shops during World War II, Coco Chanel made a comeback in the fashion world in the 1950s, continuing to shape the industry with her innovative designs.
King Louis XIV
While wigs have made appearances throughout history ,their widespread popularity can be attributed to King Louis XIV of France. The trend of wearing wigs in France initially began with Louis XIV’s father ,Louis XIII, who started wearing one in 1624 to conceal his balding. However ,it was Louis XIV’s own luscious mane of thick black hair that set a new standard for royalty and the aristocracy when he ascended the throne in 1643. Inspired by the king’s luxurious locks, many courtiers sought to emulate his style by donning wigs of their own. Interestingly, by 1673, the 35-year-old king’s own natural hair began to thin. In order to maintain his regal image and not be outshone by his courtiers, he had artificial hair integrated with his scalp and eventually started wearing wigs. The trend extended beyond France ,as King Charles II of Great Britain and Ireland also adopted a similar wig in 1663 to conceal the graying of his own black hair.
some of the key achievements of King Louis XIV of France:
Ascension to the Throne (1643): Louis XIV became king at the age of four upon the death of his father, Louis XIII ,in 1643. Since he was too young to rule ,his mother ,Queen Anne of Austria ,Served as regent until he came of age.
Establishment of Personal Rule (1661): In 1661 ,Louis XIV took personal control of the government, ending the period of regency. He centralized power in himself and made decisions without the need for ministerial approval ,leading to an absolute monarchy.
Building of the Palace of Versailles: One of Louis XIV’s most Significant achievements was the construction of the Palace of Versailles ,which became the Seat of his Government and a Symbol of his Power. The Construction began in 1664 and Continued for Several Decades.
Revocation of the Edict of Nantes (1685): Louis XIV issued the Edict of Fontainebleau in 1685 ,which revoked the Edict of Nantes ,a policy that had granted religious Tolerance to French Protestants (Huguenots). This decision led to the persecution and forced conversion of many Huguenots ,resulting in significant emigration and loss of skilled workers
Expansion of French Territory: Through various military campaigns ,Louis XIV expanded the borders of France significantly. He waged wars to gain territory and secure France’s dominance in Europe.
Patronage of the Arts: Louis XIV was a strong supporter of the arts and literature. He Established the French Academy of Sciences ,the French Academy of Inscriptions and Belles-Lettres ,and other Institutions that contributed to the Advancement of Knowledge and Culture.
Creation of a Powerful Navy: Louis XIV worked to strengthen the French navy, making it a formidable force on the seas. He recognized the importance of maritime power for the expansion of French influence.
Codification of Laws: Louis XIV sought to create a more unified legal system in France. He commissioned the creation of the “Ordonnance civile” and the “Ordonnance criminelle,” which aimed to codify and reform the French legal system.
Cleopatra
Cleopatra is a historical figure whose name is Widely Recognized and Associated with various things ,such as her distinctive makeup emphasizing her eyes ,the play “Antony and Cleopatra” by William Shakespeare ,and her romantic involvement with Julius Caesar. Another notable aspect linked to Cleopatra is her hairstyle known as the Melon Coiffure ,characterized by tightly braided hair Gathered into a bun at the back of the neck. Even though Cleopatra Spent only a brief Period in Rome during her relationship with Julius Caesar ,her influence Endured among the city’s Inhabitants long after her Departure. The hairstyle became popular among Upper-Class Roman Women and can still be seen in contemporary Depictions of Cleopatra.
Here’s a step-by-step Summary of the Achievements of Cleopatra:
Ascension to the Throne (51-50 BCE): Cleopatra VII ,also known as Cleopatra Philopator ,became the ruler of Egypt at the Age of 18 or 17 (scholars have different Opinions about her birth year).She co-ruled with her father, Ptolemy XII Auletes, for a short period.
Exile and Return (48 BCE): After her father’s death, Cleopatra faced opposition from her younger brother Ptolemy XIII, who forced her into exile. However ,with the help of Julius Caesar, she returned to Egypt and successfully reclaimed her throne.
Alliance with Julius Caesar (48-44 BCE): Cleopatra developed a romantic relationship with Julius Caesar, who was then a powerful Roman general and statesman. Their alliance strengthened her position politically and economically, as Egypt gained significant support from the Roman Republic.
Birth of Caesarion (47 BCE): Cleopatra gave birth to a son, Ptolemy XV Philopator Philometor Caesar, also known as Caesarion. His father, Julius Caesar ,acknowledged him as his son, but his legitimacy was contested by some in Rome.
Support during Roman Civil War (46-45 BCE): Cleopatra Accompanied Julius Caesar to Rome and Stood by his side during the Civil War ,further Solidifying their Relationship.
Assassination of Julius Caesar (44 BCE): Julius Caesar was assassinated in 44 BCE, which led to a power struggle in Rome. Cleopatra returned to Egypt, and Caesarion’s claim to the Roman throne was not Recognized.
Alliance with Mark Antony (41 BCE): Cleopatra formed a romantic and political alliance with Mark Antony ,one of the triumvirs ruling the Roman Republic. Their relationship further strengthened Egypt’s position and influence in Roman affairs.
The Donations of Alexandria (34 BCE): In an extravagant display of power, Cleopatra and Mark Antony organized a grand celebration in Alexandria, during which they declared Caesarion as the legitimate heir of Julius Caesar and presented their children as rulers of various Eastern territories.
Giuseppe Garibaldi
Giuseppe Garibaldi was most notably a general who fought for the unification of Italy, as well as its eventual status as a kingdom, in the mid-19th century, but his influence did not end there. It extended throughout the world, through fashion. Heading a relatively small army, Garibaldi and his men wore baggy red shirts in lieu of the uniforms they did not have. Because Garibaldi’s fight was so admired, his fame grew, and so did the popularity of his choice of shirt. Female supporters began to don similar red shirts of their own as everyday wear, and—because of the shirts’ practicality and fashionable simplicity—the trend caught on quickly. Soon enough, the “Garibaldi shirt” could be seen on the pages of magazines that speculated that the shirt might revolutionize women’s fashion—which, as the predecessor of the blouse that is an everyday staple of a modern feminine wardrobe, it certainly did.
Here’s a Step-by-Step Overview of some key Achievements in his life:
Early Life: Giuseppe Garibaldi was Born on July 4 ,1807 ,in Nice ,which was then part of the French First Republic. He grew up in a seafaring Family and developed a strong sense of adventure and patriotism from an early age.
Exile and Travel: Garibaldi’s early involvement in revolutionary activities in Italy led him to be pursued by the authorities. He was forced into exile and spent time in various countries ,including South America. During his exile ,he gained valuable military experience and earned a reputation as a Skilled military leader.
Italian Unification Movement: In the 1830s and 1840s, the Italian peninsula was fragmented into several states under foreign domination. The Italian unification movement ,also known as the “Risorgimento”, aimed to unite these states into a single ,independent nation.
Return to Italy: Garibaldi returned to Italy in 1848 and Actively Participated in the Italian Wars of Independence. He led a group of volunteers known as the “Redshirts” in various Military Campaigns ,Fighting against Austrian and other foreign forces.
The Expedition of the Thousand (1860): One of Garibaldi’s most remarkable achievements was the Expedition of the Thousand. In May 1860, he led a group of volunteers, including his famous Redshirts, on a daring march from Sicily to Naples. Their aim was to liberate the southern part of Italy from Bourbon rule and contribute to the unification efforts. The Thousand’s campaign was incredibly successful, and they captured Naples and other parts of southern Italy ,paving the way for the unification of Italy.
Cession of Southern Italy: After the Expedition of the Thousand, Garibaldi voluntarily handed over the territories he conquered to the Piedmontese ruler, King Victor Emmanuel II. This act demonstrated Garibaldi’s commitment to the idea of a unified Italy under a constitutional monarchy.
The Capture of Rome (1870): Rome remained the last major obstacle to the complete unification of Italy. In 1870, Italian troops, including Garibaldi’s forces, managed to capture Rome. This event marked the formal unification of Italy under the Kingdom of Italy, and Rome became its capital.
Later Life and Legacy: Garibaldi continued to be involved in politics and military activities even after the unification of Italy. He played a role in various European conflicts and advocated for republican principles. Despite political differences ,Garibaldi remained a popular and revered figure in Italy and beyond ,often seen as a symbol of Italian nationalism and unity.
Death: Giuseppe Garibaldi passed away on June 2 ,1882 ,at the age of 74 ,on the island of Caprera, Italy. His death was met with widespread mourning ,and he left a lasting legacy as one of the key figures in the unification of Italy.