Throughout the years, Ireland has produced some incredibly inspiring women, from writers to activists, artists to politicians. This International Women’s Day, we’re celebrating Ireland’s most iconic and influential women.
International Women’s Day falls every year on 8 March. A focal point in the women’s rights movement, it focuses on issues such as gender equality, reproductive rights, and violence against women.
It’s also a day when we can celebrate the most incredible women, both in our personal lives and on a global level. Whether it’s our mums and sisters or our favourite female artists and politicians, there are plenty of women worth celebrating.
The Emerald Isle has no shortage of inspiring females, too. So this International Women’s Day, we’re taking the time to celebrate Ireland’s ten most iconic and influential women that you need to know about.
10. Sinead O’Connor – an iconic Irish musician
Known for her powerful voice and emotive lyrics, Sinead O’Connor is an iconic Irish musician whose name is recognised all over the world.
Her single ‘Nothing Compares 2 U’ gained her international acclaim, skyrocketing her among the island’s greats.
She was also known for her passionate activism, speaking up on issues such as feminism, child abuse, and mental health awareness. Sinead O’Connor is certainly one of the most famous Irish women of all time.
9. Louise Richardson – the first female Vice-Chancellor at the University of Oxford
A political scientist and educator, Louise Richardson’s work focuses primarily on terrorism, international security, and conflict resolution.
Having received numerous awards for her scholarship and leadership, Richardson has enjoyed a distinguished career in academia. Thus making her one of Ireland’s most iconic and influential women.
8. Katie Taylor – a multi-award-winning boxer
An incredibly talented Irish boxer, Katie Taylor’s greatest moment came during the 2012 Olympics when she won the gold medal in the lightweight division.
A moment for the history books, Taylor became the first Irish woman to win an Olympic boxing gold medal.
7. Fionnuala Ní Aoláin – an Irish legal scholar and human rights expert
Fionnuala Ní Aoláin is a legal scholar and human rights expert known for her work in international law, which focuses on the areas of conflict resolution, gender, and human rights.
She has been actively involved in various United Nations bodies and international organisations and has received numerous honours and awards for her scholarship and advocacy work.
6. Maureen O’Hara – an iconic actress from Hollywood’s Golden era
If you’re a fan of classic films, you’ll no doubt recognise the name, or at least the flaming red hair and fiery characters, or Maureen O’Hara.
Hailing from Dublin, she was an acclaimed actress during the Golden Age of Cinema. Some of her most well-known films include The Quiet Man and The Parent Trap.
5. Sonia O’Sullivan – an Olympic Gold medallist
A well-known Irish athlete renowned for her incredible achievements in athletics and running, Sonia O’Sullivan is certainly one of Ireland’s most iconic and influential women.
Born in Cork in 1969, O’Sullivan has won several Olympic medals and set several world records, making her one of the most inspiring female athletes in the world.
4. Mary McAleese – a former Irish President
A politician and academic who served as Ireland’s eighth President from 1997 to 2011, Mary McAleese is a formidable lady who achieved much during her tenure.
During her time as President, she focused on promoting peace and reconciliation in Northern Ireland and fostering friendly relations between the United Kingdom and Ireland.
3. Edna O’Brien – an incredibly influential writer
Born in the town of Tuamgraney in County Clare in 1930, Edna O’Brien is a well-known Irish novelist, memoirist, short story writer, playwright, and poet.
Her work is renowned for its thought-provoking interrogation of themes such as Irish identity, sexuality, and the role of women in society.
2. Mary Robinson – another former Irish President
Another formidable Irish President, Mary Robinson served her time in office from 1990 to 1997. Thus, making her the first female President of Ireland, an impressive achievement in itself.
Throughout her life, she has focused on issues such as human rights, climate justice, and gender equality.
Check out one of Mary Robinson’s most empowering quotes this International Women’s Day.
1. Veronica Guerin – a fearless journalist
Topping our list of Ireland’s most iconic and influential women is the incredible Irish investigative journalist, Veronica Guerin.
Passionate and fearless, Guerin is known for her courageous reporting on crime and drug trafficking in Ireland during the 1990s, which she carried out all the way through to her assassination in 1996.
KEEP READING: 10 Irish women who changed the world
