Race for the Skies: Earhart vs. Boll

March 2024
Smithsonian Magazine

Race for the Skies: Earhart vs. Boll

Introduction

Dive into the thrilling skies of the 1920s with Smithsonian Magazine's article on Amelia Earhart and Mabel Boll's daring race to become the first woman to fly across the Atlantic. Discover how these audacious women battled societal norms, dangerous flights, and each other in their quest for aerial glory. It's a tale of ambition, jewels, and high-flying adventure that's sure to captivate!

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Why It Matters

Discover how this topic shapes your world and future

High Flyers and Glass Ceilings

Why does the story of Amelia Earhart and Mabel Boll matter? Well, it's not just an exciting tale of rivalry and adventure; it's a powerful lens through which we can explore broader themes like gender roles, societal expectations, and the pursuit of dreams against all odds. In the 1920s, most women were expected to be homemakers, yet Earhart and Boll broke through severe societal constraints to pursue aviation—a field dominated by men and fraught with danger. Their story illustrates the challenges faced by women who dare to defy traditional roles, offering a historical perspective on gender equality and the evolution of societal norms. For you, this can be a source of inspiration, showing that with determination and courage, it's possible to overcome seemingly insurmountable obstacles.

Speak like a Scholar

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Aviatrix

A female aviator, especially one from the early years of aviation.

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Precedent-breaking

Doing something that has never been done before, or breaking away from established norms.

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Trans-Atlantic

Crossing the Atlantic Ocean, usually referring to air or sea travel between Europe and North America.

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Aeronautics

The science or practice of travel through the air, particularly the design and operation of aircraft.

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Moniker

A name or nickname.

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Archaeologist

A scientist who studies human history and prehistory through the excavation of sites and the analysis of artifacts and other physical remains.

Independent Research Ideas

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Women in Early 20th Century Professions

Investigate the barriers and breakthroughs for women in professions like law, medicine, and engineering during the 1920s. How did these challenges compare to those in aviation?

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Technological Innovations in 1920s Aviation

Explore the technological advancements in aircraft design and navigation in the 1920s that made trans-Atlantic flights possible. What were the risks and how were they mitigated?

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Media Influence on Public Perceptions

Analyze how the media portrayed female aviators like Earhart and Boll compared to their male counterparts. What impact did this have on public attitudes towards women in aviation?

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The Role of Sponsorship in Aviation History

Examine the role of financial backers in the early days of aviation. How did sponsorship impact the careers of aviators like Boll and Earhart, and the progress of aviation technology?

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Comparative Study of Gender Roles Across Different Cultures in the 1920s

Research how women's roles in the 1920s varied across different cultures and continents. How did societal expectations in America compare with those in Europe or Asia?