Explore the lives of three extraordinary women named Belle, from a chemist who won a Nobel Prize to a librarian with a mysterious past. Learn about their resilience, achievements, and the societal challenges they faced in a discriminatory society.
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Quick takeaways
Belle de Costa Green revolutionized J.P. Morgan's library collection with exceptional skills and acquisitions.
Daido Elizabeth Bell challenged societal norms and influenced a landmark legal ruling in the 18th century.
Deep dives
Elle M - Overcoming Financial Challenges to Achieve Success in Chemistry
Elle M, born in 1918, faced financial hardships during the Great Depression but excelled academically, eventually earning a chemistry degree. Despite struggling to find work as a female chemist, she persisted, landing a groundbreaking role at a pharmaceutical company during World War II. Through innovative research, Elle M contributed to the development of life-saving drugs, earning accolades, including the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine.
Belle de Costa Green - From Librarian to Renowned Collector
Belle de Costa Green, hired by J.P. Morgan in 1905, transformed his private library into a world-renowned collection through her exceptional organizational skills and acquisitions. Despite criticism and scandal surrounding her personal life, including rumors of relationships with notable figures, Green's dedication to curating thousands of rare books and manuscripts earned her respect and recognition as a trailblazing librarian.
Daido Elizabeth Bell - Embracing Multiracial Identity in the 18th Century
Daido Elizabeth Bell, depicted in a portrait with her white cousin, challenged societal norms by being raised almost as an equal in an aristocratic British household despite her Afro-Caribbean heritage. Her upbringing with Lord Mansfield, the Lord Chief Justice, influenced his landmark ruling in the Somerset case, underscoring the complex intertwined relationships of race, family, and law in the 18th century. Bell navigated her identity delicately, marrying and raising a family before passing at the age of 42.
Legacy and Influence of Remarkable Women in History
The stories of Elle M, Belle de Costa Green, and Daido Elizabeth Bell highlight the resilience, intellect, and impact of women in various fields during different eras. Their contributions to chemistry, library science, and challenging racial perceptions continue to inspire and shape historical narratives, emphasizing the importance of recognizing diverse accomplishments and identities in shaping our collective history.
This 2017 episode features three unique women, all of whom are notable. They each have a surprising aspect to their stories, and they each have the name Belle.