From 2011: Wangari Maathai, Nobel Peace Prize Laureate, Dies at 71

The lives and legacies of five women who shaped history have left an indelible mark on their respective countries and the world. From environmental activism to politics, these women broke barriers and paved the way for future generations.

What Happened

• Wangari Maathai, a Kenyan environmentalist and Nobel Peace Prize laureate, passed away in 2011 at the age of 71.
• Christine Keeler, a central figure in the British 'scandal of the century,' died in 2017 at the age of 75.
• Indira Gandhi, the dominant figure in Indian politics for nearly two decades, was assassinated in 1984.
• Sirimavo Bandaranaike, the first woman to serve as a prime minister in the world, passed away in 2000 at the age of 84.
• Margaret Thatcher, the 'Iron Lady' of British politics, died in 2013 at the age of 87.

Why It Matters

These women, though from different walks of life, shared a common trait – they were all trailblazers in their respective fields. Wangari Maathai's environmental activism inspired a generation of Africans to take action against deforestation and promote sustainable development. Indira Gandhi's leadership in India paved the way for future generations of women in politics. Sirimavo Bandaranaike's premiership in Sri Lanka broke the glass ceiling for women in politics. Margaret Thatcher's policies had a lasting impact on British politics and economy. Christine Keeler's scandal, though not directly related to politics, brought attention to the need for accountability in public office.

Key Facts

• Who: Wangari Maathai, Christine Keeler, Indira Gandhi, Sirimavo Bandaranaike, and Margaret Thatcher

What Experts Say

"Wangari Maathai was a true African heroine who inspired a generation of Africans to take action against deforestation and promote sustainable development." — Kofi Annan, former UN Secretary-General

Key Numbers

• **71: Wangari Maathai's age at the time of her death
• **75: Christine Keeler's age at the time of her death
• **84: Sirimavo Bandaranaike's age at the time of her death
• **87: Margaret Thatcher's age at the time of her death
• **4: Number of times Indira Gandhi was elected prime minister

Background

• Wangari Maathai was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2004 for her efforts to promote sustainable development and democracy in Africa.
• Indira Gandhi was the daughter of Jawaharlal Nehru, India's first prime minister, and was born into politics.
• Sirimavo Bandaranaike became the first woman to serve as a prime minister in the world in 1960.
• Margaret Thatcher was the longest-serving British prime minister of the 20th century.
• Christine Keeler's scandal led to the resignation of British War Secretary John Profumo.

What Comes Next

The legacies of these women continue to inspire future generations of leaders and activists. As the world continues to grapple with environmental, economic, and social challenges, the examples set by these trailblazers serve as a reminder of the impact one person can have.