Some Modern Heroes

This chapter surveys numerous female innovators in the fields of literature, film, science, sports, business, journalism, art, humanitarian service, and a number of particular professions. These women have made major contributions to society, and many of them are globally famous. The chapter then explores the rise and frustration of female professionals, as the rapidly expanding population of highly educated women met a sanction-constricted economy, where women’s employment was generally deemed less essential for families than male employment. The chapter ends with a roll-call of “firsts” for Iranian women in many fields of endeavor, including the first female founder of a bank, and the first female firefighter.