The 20th century began with a sense of great optimism after centuries of oppression. It was to be one of the most violent and tumultuous in world history and paved the way for many people to seize opportunities and make a difference. And women have been there every step of the way. From extraordinary breakthroughs in science, to revolutionary political shifts, this is a collection of some of the most remarkable achievements of women in the last century. Individual profiles share the achievements of: Simone de Beauvior Marie Curie Indira Gandhi Coco Chanel Tracey Emin Virginia Woolf Angela Merkel Frida Kahlo Michelle Obama Princess Diana