by Anne on November 19, 2010
Indira Gandhi, politician
Nov. 19, 1917-Oct. 31, 1984

Lives of Extraordinary Women: Rulers, Rebels (and What the Neighbors Thought) by Kathleen Krull, illustrated by Kathryn Hewitt (Harcourt, 2000)
Indira Gandhi served as the Prime Minister of India during portions of the 1960s, 70s and 80s. This remarkable woman is highlighted in this book dedicated to women who have changed the world.
Remembering Indira Gandhi highlights Gandhi’s contributions.
by Anne on October 6, 2010
Fannie Lou Hamer, activist
Oct. 6, 1917-Mar. 14, 1977

Women of Hope: African Americans Who Made a Difference by Joyce Hansen (Scholastic, 1998)
Hamer was involved with voting rights in the 1960s in addition to being a champion for the poor and underprivileged. The tombstone of this great African American woman reads, “I am sick and tired of being sick and tired.”
Hamer was inducted into the National Women’s Hall of Fame in 1993.
by Anne on September 17, 2010
Jacob Lawrence, artist
Sept. 17, 1917-June 9, 2000

Story Painter: The Life of Jacob Lawrence by John Diggleby (Chronicle, 1998)
Lawrence, an accomplished African American painter who grew up in Harlem fostered his talent at a young age and by 30 was considered an incredible talent. A story of determination.
The University of Washington site has an excellent bio and links.
Lena Horne, musician
June 30, 1917-

Amelia to Zora: Twenty-Six Women Who Changed the World by Cynthia Chin-Lee, illustrated by Megan Halsey and Sean Addy (Charlesbridge, 2005)
Horne, best known for her hit song, Stormy Weather, sang and acted in several Hollywood musicals beginning in 1938.
PBS Online News Hour celebrated Horne’s 80th birthday. Read all about it here.
John F. Kennedy, U.S. President
May 29, 1917-November 22, 1963

A Picture Book Biography of John F. Kennedy by David A. Adler, illustrated by Robert F. Casilla (Holiday House, 1992)
The 35th President of the United States was a huge advocate for the space program, created the Peace Corps and sought to end racial discrimination.
Go to The John F. Kennedy Presidential Library & Museum to read Kennedy’s White House Diary and take a virtual tour.