Brave Women Disguised As Men Join Their Nation's Military

Throughout history, brave women have been courageous by disguising themselves as men to join their nation’s military.

These women defied societal rules to fight for freedom, protect their families, and serve their countries. Their courage and determination inspire people to challenge expectations and follow their beliefs.

Each of these women risked everything to achieve their goals, often hiding their true identities in dangerous situations. From battlefields to naval campaigns, their stories highlight resilience, strength, and sacrifice.

Let’s explore the stories of ten brave women who proved that courage knows no gender boundaries. Their legacies continue to inspire today.

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- Female Warriors in History Defying Gender Norms

Hua Mulan (China, 4th–6th Century CE)

A 16-year-old legendary Chinese warrior from the 4th–6th Century CE, disguised as a man, standing confidently in traditional Chinese male military armour with intricate patterns reflecting ancient Chinese art. Her features appear more neutral to blend in as a male soldier, with her hair completely hidden under a soldier’s helmet — legendary Chinese warrior from the 4th–6th Century CE, Hua Mulan

A legendary figure from Chinese folklore who took her father’s place in the army by disguising herself as a man. Her story is immortalized in the Ballad of Mulan.

Although the Northern Wei Dynasty (4th–6th century CE) is often associated with her tale, no historical evidence confirms her existence. Her military service, disguise as a man, and return home after declining a government position align with the folklore.

Hua Mulan lives in Chinese legend as a brave woman who fights in her father’s place. During the Northern Wei Dynasty, the government drafts men to defend the country against invaders. Mulan’s father, too old to fight, faces certain death if he joins. Mulan, knowing her father’s fate, makes a bold decision.

She cuts her hair, wears men’s clothing, and enlists as a soldier. Disguised as a man, she trains hard and earns the respect of her fellow soldiers. Her skill with weapons and strategy help her rise through the ranks.

Mulan fights for over a decade, proving herself on the battlefield. She protects her identity while leading her troops to victory. When the war ends, the emperor offers her a high position. Mulan declines, choosing instead to return home to her family.

Back in her village, Mulan reveals her true identity. Her comrades, amazed at her courage, celebrate her bravery. Her story becomes part of Chinese folklore, teaching the values of family loyalty, sacrifice, and strength.

The Ballad of Mulan preserves her legacy as a symbol of resilience and honour. Today, Mulan remains an inspiring figure for people seeking to challenge gender roles and follow their own paths.

Other famous Chinese women warriors:

Deborah Sampson (United States, 1760–1827)

Deborah Sampson, an American Revolutionary War hero depicted in traditional 18th-century military attire, disguised as a male soldier. She wears a tricorn hat and a simple but rugged Continental Army uniform, with a musket slung over her shoulder. Her expression is resolute, showing courage and determination — an American Revolutionary War hero, Deborah Sampson

Deborah Sampson stands out as a true hero of the American Revolutionary War. Born in Massachusetts in 1760, she grows up in a poor family. Despite hardships, she develops a strong sense of independence and courage.

When the Revolutionary War begins, Deborah wants to fight for her country. Women cannot enlist, so she disguises herself as a man. Using the name Robert Shurtliff, she joins the Continental Army in 1782. She trains alongside male soldiers and learns to use weapons effectively.

Deborah serves in dangerous battles, showing bravery and skill. She suffers injuries during combat but hides her true identity from the army. Once, she removes a musket ball from her leg herself to keep her secret.

Her true identity comes to light when she becomes seriously ill. Despite the discovery, her officers respect her bravery and grant her an honourable discharge in 1783. She later marries and has children, but she never stops advocating for soldiers’ rights.

Deborah’s courage earns her a place in history as one of America’s first female soldiers. Her story inspires others to challenge societal expectations and fight for their beliefs. Today, she remains a symbol of determination and equality.

Hannah Snell (United Kingdom, 1723–1792)

Hannah Snell, a British historical figure depicted in the 18th century dressed as a male Royal Marine. She wears a traditional red military coat, breeches, and a tricorn hat, blending into the appearance of a male soldier. Her expression is resolute and focused, holding a musket in a ready position — a British historical figure, Hannah Snell

Hannah Snell serves as a remarkable figure in British military history. She joined the British Royal Marines in the 18th century, disguised as a man under the name James Gray.

Born in Worcester, England, in 1723, she grows up with a strong sense of adventure. When her husband abandons her, she decides to take control of her own destiny.

Hannah disguises herself as a man and adopts the name James Gray. She joins the British Army and later the Royal Marines. Her disguise allows her to train and fight alongside men without being discovered.

As a Royal Marine, Hannah takes part in several military campaigns, including battles in India against French forces. She shows great bravery, earning respect from her fellow soldiers. During combat, she sustains multiple injuries but works to hide her true identity.

Hannah eventually reveals her secret to her commanding officers. Instead of punishment, she receives an honourable discharge. She also gains public attention, sharing her story and performing on stage in her military uniform.

Her courage and determination inspire many, making her a symbol of strength and resilience. Hannah challenges gender roles and proves women’s capability in traditionally male roles. Today, her story reminds people to pursue their dreams, no matter the obstacles they face.

Khawla bint al-Azwar (7th Century Arabia)

Khawla bint al-Azwar, a legendary warrior from 7th Century Arabia, depicted during the early Islamic conquests. She wears traditional Arab military attire with flowing robes, a turban, and a veil partially covering her face to disguise herself as a man. She holds a spear confidently, symbolizing her bravery, with a shield slung across her back — legendary warrior from 7th Century Arabia, Khawla bint al-Azwar

Khawla bint al-Azwar shows extraordinary courage and leadership during the early Islamic conquests in the 7th century. She is a semi-legendary figure in Islamic history, known for her bravery during the Battle of Ajnadayn and other conflicts.

Born in Arabia, Khawla grows up in a noble family and learns poetry, horseback riding, and combat skills.

When her brother, Dhiraar, becomes a soldier, Khawla trains with him and develops her own combat abilities. During a critical battle, Khawla disguises herself as a man and fights bravely in the Muslim army. Her skill with a sword and fearless leadership inspire those around her.

Khawla earns fame during the Battle of Ajnadayn against the Byzantine Empire. When her brother gets captured, she leads a rescue mission. She rallies the troops and charges into battle, freeing her brother and other prisoners.

Her bravery earns her the title “Leader of Women Warriors.”

Khawla continues to fight in several battles, always showing strength and determination. Her actions challenge the traditional roles of women in her time. She becomes a symbol of courage and resilience, inspiring others to stand for their beliefs.

Khawla bint al-Azwar remains one of the most celebrated women warriors in Islamic history. Her story shows the power of bravery and the ability to defy societal expectations.

Catalina de Erauso (Spain, 1592–1650)

Catalina de Erauso, also known as the 'Lieutenant Nun,' depicted in the 17th century wearing traditional Spanish military attire, disguised as a man. She wears a soldier's uniform with a breastplate, breeches, and a wide-brimmed hat, holding a rapier confidently at her side. Her face shows determination and strength, with features slightly obscured to highlight her disguise as a man — Also known as the ‘Lieutenant Nun,’ Catalina de Erauso

Catalina de Erauso, also known as the “Lieutenant Nun,” leads a bold and adventurous life. She escapes a convent, disguises herself as a man, and serves as a soldier in Spanish colonial expeditions.

Born in San Sebastián, Spain, in 1592, Catalina joins a convent at a young age. She decides to leave the convent and take control of her own future.

Disguising herself as a man, Catalina adopts male names like Francisco de Loyola. She travels across Spain and later to the Spanish colonies in South America. Catalina works various jobs, including as a soldier, merchant, and labourer. Her military career brings her into battles and duels, where she shows courage and skill.

Catalina fights in Spanish colonial campaigns, earning recognition for her bravery. She avoids discovery for years, despite close calls and injuries. Her life involves many dramatic escapes and encounters that demonstrate her quick thinking and resilience.

When her identity comes to light, Catalina gains attention from the Spanish authorities. She receives a pardon from the pope and permission to continue living as a man. Catalina shares her story in an autobiography, inspiring many with her extraordinary life.

Her determination and resourcefulness challenge traditional gender roles and highlight her strength. Catalina’s legacy remains a unique and inspiring example of courage and independence.

Sarah Emma Edmonds (Canada/United States, 1841–1898)

Sarah Emma Edmonds, a Canadian woman and Union Army soldier during the American Civil War, depicted in disguise as a man. She has short hair or a neatly tied ponytail to blend in with male soldiers. She wears a rugged Union Army uniform, including a wide-brimmed military hat, and carries a musket with a determined expression — Canadian woman and Union Army soldier during the American Civil War, Sarah Emma Edmonds

Sarah Emma Edmonds shows incredible bravery and determination during the American Civil War. As a Canadian woman she disguises herself as a man to fight for the Union Army during the American Civil War.

Born in 1841 in New Brunswick, Canada, Sarah grows up in a strict household. She dreams of adventure and seeks freedom from her challenging home life.

To create new opportunities, Sarah disguises herself as a man and adopts the name Franklin Thompson. She moves to the United States and works as a bookseller before deciding to enlist in the Union Army. As Franklin, she serves as a soldier, nurse, and spy for the North.

Sarah’s role as a spy requires her to take on different disguises, including posing as an African American man and an Irish woman. She gathers critical information that helps the Union Army in several battles. Her courage on the battlefield earns the respect of her comrades.

Illness forces Sarah to leave the army, but she later writes a memoir about her experiences. Her book, Nurse and Spy in the Union Army, becomes popular and highlights the contributions of women in the war.

Sarah receives recognition for her service later in life, including an honourable discharge and a military pension. Her story inspires people to follow their dreams and stand up for their beliefs, no matter the odds.

Other famous North American female warriors:

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Maria Quitéria (Brazil, 1792–1853)

Maria Quitéria, a Brazilian national hero from the 18th century, depicted as a soldier during Brazil’s fight for independence. She has short, cropped hair to reflect her disguise as a man and wears a realistic 18th-century Brazilian military uniform, including a jacket, trousers, and a military hat. She holds a musket and stands confidently, showcasing determination and bravery — a Brazilian national hero from the 18th century, Maria Quitéria

Maria Quitéria becomes a national hero during Brazil’s fight for independence. She disguises herself as a man and enlists in the Brazilian army under the alias “Soldado Medeiros.”

Born in 1792 in Bahia, Brazil, she grows up on a farm, learning skills like horseback riding and shooting.

When the Brazilian War of Independence begins in 1822, Maria wants to join the fight. Her father refuses, so Maria disguises herself as a man. She cuts her hair, wears her brother’s clothes, and enlists under the name “Soldado Medeiros.”

Maria quickly proves her courage and skill in battle. She fights in several important campaigns, leading troops and inspiring others with her bravery. Her superiors and fellow soldiers respect her abilities and determination.

When Maria’s true identity becomes known, her commanders allow her to continue serving.

Upon the discovery of her true identity, her superiors allow her to continue serving due to her valour. She is promoted to cadet and later to lieutenant. Emperor Dom Pedro I awards her the Imperial Order of the Southern Cross for her contributions to independence.

She becomes the first woman in Brazil’s army and earns the rank of lieutenant.

After the war, Maria returns to her village and lives a quiet life. Her story remains an important part of Brazilian history. Maria Quitéria shows how determination and courage can break barriers and create change. She continues to inspire people to stand up for what they believe in.

Ana María de Soto (Spain, 1775–1833)

Ana María de Soto, a historical figure from Spain, depicted as the first woman to serve in Spain’s Marine Infantry. She is dressed in an 18th-century Spanish Marine uniform, including a blue naval jacket, breeches, and a tricorn hat, disguising herself as a man. Her hair is short to complete her male disguise, and she stands confidently holding a musket — a historical figure from Spain, Ana María de Soto

Ana María de Soto becomes the first known woman to serve in Spain’s Marine Infantry.

Born in Aguilar de la Frontera in 1775, she dreams of joining the military. Since women cannot enlist, she disguises herself as a man and takes the name Antonio María de Soto.

At 18, Ana joins the 6th Company of the 11th Marine Battalion in 1793. She trains alongside male soldiers, mastering weapons and military tactics. Her courage and dedication earn her respect from her fellow marines.

Ana fights in naval battles during Spain’s wars with France and Britain. She takes part in key conflicts like the Battle of Cape St. Vincent and helps defend Cádiz from enemy forces. Despite the dangers, she performs her duties with bravery and skill.

Her true identity becomes known during a medical examination in 1798. Instead of punishment, King Charles IV recognizes her service. He awards her the rank of sergeant and grants her a military pension. Ana also receives permission to wear the Marine Infantry insignia in civilian life.

Ana María de Soto’s determination and courage challenge gender roles and inspire others to follow their dreams. Her story continues to remind people of the power of bravery and dedication.

Nadezhda Durova (Russia, 1783–1866)

Nadezhda Durova, a Russian female soldier from the Napoleonic Wars, depicted in disguise as Alexander Sokolov, a male soldier. She wears a Russian Imperial Army uniform with a military jacket, trousers, and a shako hat. She sits confidently on horseback, holding a sabre, reflecting her skill as a cavalry rider — From the Napoleonic Wars, Nadezhda Durova, Russian female soldier

Nadezhda Durova becomes one of Russia’s first known female soldiers.

Born in 1783, she grows up in a military family. Her father’s position inspires her love for horses and adventure. As a young woman, she decides to break social norms and join the army.

Disguising herself as a man, Nadezhda adopts the name Alexander Sokolov. She joins the Russian Imperial Army during the Napoleonic Wars. Her skill as a horse rider and her bravery in battle earn her respect from fellow soldiers. She serves in several important campaigns, including the defence of Russia against Napoleon’s forces.

Tsar Alexander I learns about her secret but supports her military career. He allows her to continue serving and even awards her a promotion. Nadezhda’s courage and determination make her a celebrated figure in the army.

After retiring, Nadezhda writes her memoir, The Cavalry Maiden. The book describes her experiences and inspires others to follow their dreams. She spends her later years writing and contributing to Russian literature.

Nadezhda Durova’s life challenges traditional gender roles and highlights the power of determination. Her story remains a symbol of courage and resilience, inspiring future generations to defy expectations and pursue their goals.

Dorothy Lawrence (United Kingdom, 1896–1964)

Dorothy Lawrence, a British journalist from World War I, depicted in disguise as Private Denis Smith, a male soldier. She wears a British Army uniform of the era, including a tunic, trousers, and a military cap, blending in with male soldiers. Her short hair and determined expression reflect her commitment to experiencing the war firsthand — a British journalist, Dorothy Lawrence from World War I

Dorothy Lawrence shows remarkable determination during World War I.

Born in 1896 in England, she dreams of becoming a war correspondent. As a young journalist, Dorothy struggles to gain access to the frontlines, where women are not allowed.

Determined to experience the war firsthand, she disguises herself as a man. Dorothy creates a new identity as “Private Denis Smith” and joins the British Army. She uses stolen and borrowed military clothing and learns to act like a soldier to avoid suspicion. Her bravery allows her to reach the Western Front in France.

Dorothy works alongside soldiers, digging trenches and enduring harsh conditions. She keeps her true identity hidden, fearing discovery. Eventually, illness forces her to reveal her secret to British officers. They remove her from the frontlines and detain her for questioning. Dorothy faces challenges but refuses to give up her story.

After the war, she publishes her memoir, Sapper Dorothy Lawrence: The Only English Woman Soldier, sharing her experiences. Authorities censor parts of her book, limiting her success. Despite this, Dorothy’s story inspires others to challenge societal restrictions.

Dorothy Lawrence remains a symbol of courage and determination, showing the power of persistence in breaking barriers and seeking the truth.

Other British female warriors:

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Notorious Spy – Yoshiko Kawashima (China/Japan, 1907–1948)

Yoshiko Kawashima with short hair, dressed in a man's uniform, standing confidently among male military officials. The background features a setting that suggests military strategy and planning, with Yoshiko clearly in a leadership role. The atmosphere reflects her significant position and respect among the officials, capturing her skills and authority — Yoshiko Kawashima with short hair, dressed in a man’s uniform

Yoshiko Kawashima, a Chinese princess raised in Japan, frequently dressed in male attire while working as a spy for Japan during the Second Sino-Japanese War. She gathered intelligence and conducted covert operations, making her a controversial figure in Asian history.

Yoshiko Kawashima works as a spy during the Second Sino-Japanese War. Born in China, she grows up in Japan after being adopted by a Japanese family. Known for wearing male clothing, she challenges traditional gender norms and uses her appearance to blend into different environments.

Yoshiko collects intelligence for Japan and supports military operations during the war. Her bold tactics and ability to navigate dangerous situations make her a controversial figure. Some see her as a traitor, while others admire her courage.

Using her disguise, she gains access to restricted areas and influences political decisions. Yoshiko’s actions play a significant role in wartime espionage, but her loyalties create tension between her Chinese heritage and her role in Japan’s efforts.

In 1948, Yoshiko faces execution for her wartime activities. Her story remains complex, highlighting themes of identity, loyalty, and bravery.

Other famous female Japanese warriors:

Conclusion

These ten brave women show that determination and courage break barriers. Each woman risked her life to serve her country.

By disguising themselves as men, they challenged societal norms and proved their strength on battlefields and in military campaigns. Their stories inspire us to stand up for our beliefs and push beyond limits.

These brave women remind us that courage comes in many forms and knows no boundaries. Their legacies continue to encourage people to follow their dreams and fight for what they believe in. History remembers their bravery, and their stories will keep inspiring future generations.