Susan B. Anthony

Susan B. Anthony, a name synonymous with women's suffrage, was born into a Quaker family, which, while known for its progressive views on gender equality, isn't exactly known for its matzah ball soup. Her activism started early, campaigning against slavery and for temperance before finding her true calling in the fight for women's rights. Clearly, she had a knack for unpopular causes.

Anthony’s tireless work alongside Elizabeth Cady Stanton led to the formation of the National Woman Suffrage Association. She even brazenly voted in the 1872 presidential election, leading to her arrest and a fine she famously refused to pay. While admirable, one can only imagine the kvetching if anyone tried to fine her for something as trivial as, say, jaywalking.

Despite her monumental impact, Anthony passed away in 1906, fourteen years before the 19th Amendment, granting women the right to vote, was finally ratified. It seems the universe has a cruel sense of humor, denying her the ultimate validation of her life’s work. Still, her face on the dollar coin is a lasting tribute, even if inflation has made it about as valuable as a used dreidel. If only it were a crisp Benjamin.

So, while Susan B. Anthony was undeniably a force of nature and a titan in American history, she was, alas, not one of us. Her legacy is secure, but her last name doesn't exactly roll off the tongue at a Shabbat dinner.