The contributions of women through the years have often gone unappreciated and forgotten, but each year, in March, Women’s History Month is a time for reflection, appreciation, and celebration.

Women’s History Month is an important time to recognize contributions both large and small that have changed our lives for the better.

Throughout the years, women have fought to hold higher positions, to be equal, to be treated fairly, or even just to be taken seriously.

For example:

Marie Curie discovered two new radioactive elements: polonium and radium.

Katharine Graham was a famous and accomplished American newspaper publisher.

Hellen Adams Keller was an American author, disability rights advocate, political activist and lecturer.

Jane Austen was an accomplished English novelist.

Amelia Earhart was a pioneering aviator who broke many records and inspired women to fly.

Maya Angelou was a poet, memoirist, and activist who overcame poverty, racism, and sexual abuse to inspire millions with her words and deeds.

Harriet Tubman was born into slavery in Maryland around 1820 but escaped to freedom in 1849 using the Underground Railroad, a network of secret routes and safe houses.

Anne Frank was a German-born Jewish girl who kept a diary in which she documented life in hiding under Nazi persecution.

To learn more about Women’s History Month and some of the amazing women at Alden High School, click play on the video above.