In October 2018, Defence Secretary Gavin Williamson announced that all roles int he military would now be open to women. Although this marks a historic shift, officially allowing British women into combat roles, the presence of women on the front lines dates back to antiquity.

JulieWheelwright explores the history of women in arms, demonstrating that women have always played a key role as warriors throughout the ages. She traces our fascination with these forgotten figures, many of whom successfully disguised themselves as men.

Julie will be in conversation with curator Kirsty Parsons, as they investigate the hidden stories of these remarkable women.

Dr JulieWheelwright is the author of several books, including Amazons and Military Maids (1989), The Fatal Lover: Mata Hari and the Myth of Women in Espionage (1992) and Esther: The Remarkable, True Story of Esther Wheelwright (2011). A broadcaster and print journalist, she has written widely about women in conflict and the challenges servicewomen face in male‐dominated fields. She is a senior lecturer and programme director at City University,London.

Sisters in Arms