By: Carmen Ellis

When history forgets, Harrison Klein remembers—and in Badass Bitches of History: 31 Unconventional, Strong, Defiant Women Who Changed The World, he makes sure the world does too. This audacious, unapologetic book—set for release in April 2025—is both a searing retort to patriarchal storytelling and a rallying call for anyone seeking courage, clarity, and rebellion in the face of systemic limitation.

In a series of powerful profiles, Klein resurrects women from across time and continents who defied conventions, resisted oppression, and forged new paths in politics, science, literature, and social justice. These are not tales of passive inspiration but of bold action. From Cleopatra’s diplomatic genius to revolutionaries erased by colonial history, this is a book that doesn’t just add women to the historical record—it flips the record entirely.

Reclaiming a Weaponized Word

The provocative title, Badass Bitches of History, is no accident. For Klein, the word “bitch” has long been wielded as a weapon against women who refuse to conform. This book aims to reclaim it, redefining it as a badge of power. “Society tends to label [strong women] as ‘bitches’ when they break the mold,” Klein explains. “This book is a reclamation of that label.”

To make the point, he offers a new acronym: B.I.T.C.H.—Beautiful, Intense, Trustworthy, Competent, and Harmonious. Each woman featured embodies these qualities and more, refusing to compromise their values in the face of pressure or threat. “Being a badass isn’t about being cruel,” Klein emphasizes. “It’s about owning your strength, authority, and voice.”

Courage Across Cultures and Centuries

The 31 women profiled span global regions and eras, connected not by origin but by temperament. Klein identifies five traits they share: No Compromise, Confidence, Competence, Self-Esteem, and Safety—though ironically, safety was the one trait few could afford. “None of these women prioritized safety,” he says. “They lived—and often led—on the edge.”

This spirit of daring manifests in different forms: scientific breakthroughs, social revolutions, leadership on the battlefield or in the courtroom. But what unites them all is their refusal to accept the limits society placed upon them. “These stories reveal a global power shift—where women lead with vision, strategy, and emotional depth that defy patriarchal norms,” Klein says.

Intellect as a Weapon for Change

A central theme throughout the book is the strategic use of intellect. “World-changing influence doesn’t happen without intelligence,” Klein notes. Whether through formal education or intuitive genius, these women built revolutions on the foundation of brilliant thinking. In a time when women’s intelligence was often dismissed or punished, these leaders weaponized their minds to effect lasting change.

Take Cleopatra, one of the book’s standout figures. Too often reduced to her romantic entanglements in pop culture, Klein restores her reputation as a master of diplomacy and reinvention. “Cleopatra proves that strategic brilliance and personal presence aren’t mutually exclusive,” he says. “Her story teaches us that boundaries can be reshaped when you combine intellect with grace and fearlessness.”

Lessons for Modern Leaders

For Klein, these historical lessons aren’t meant to stay in the past. He sees the featured women as blueprints for today’s changemakers—especially those navigating contemporary challenges with legacy-sized ambition. Young leaders like Greta Thunberg and Malala Yousafzai are, in Klein’s view, the direct heirs to this lineage of defiance. “They’re fighting the same kinds of resistance historic women faced—only now, the battleground includes digital platforms, global media, and rapid public scrutiny,” he says.

He hopes modern leaders will find not just inspiration but practical guidance in these stories. “Whether it’s Cleopatra’s diplomacy, Wangari Maathai’s environmental vision, or Frida Kahlo’s radical self-expression, these women demonstrate how intellect, resilience, and emotional depth can drive real transformation.”

A Deeply Personal Journey

The process of researching and writing the book was an emotional one. “Absolutely—almost all of them moved me,” Klein says. “Many of these women endured unimaginable hardships. Their ability to transform suffering into strength, and silence into power, moved me beyond words.”

When asked if any woman stood out above the rest, he demurs. “That’s like asking a parent to choose a favorite child,” he laughs. Still, the question he’d most want to ask any of them speaks volumes about what drives the book itself: “What shifted inside you? What moment pushed you from contemplation into action?”

That moment of ignition—the spark that turns ordinary struggle into extraordinary legacy—is the heartbeat of Badass Bitches of History.

A Blueprint and a Battle Cry

More than a collection of bios, this book includes interactive components and reflection prompts meant to help readers internalize the lessons and apply them. The goal isn’t just admiration—it’s activation.

“I want every young woman or marginalized reader to feel seen, inspired, and equipped to rise,” Klein says. “This book offers both a blueprint and a rallying cry.”

In short, Badass Bitches of History doesn’t just revisit the past—it reclaims it. And in doing so, it offers a fearless vision of the future, led by those who dare to speak up, stand out, and stay true.

Available Now:
Badass Bitches of History: 31 Unconventional, Strong, Defiant Women Who Changed The World By Harrison Klein is available in paperback and Kindle editions on Amazon, and other major retailers.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only. The views and opinions expressed are those of the author, Harrison Klein, and do not constitute professional advice. While the article highlights historical figures and their contributions, individual interpretations of history may vary. Readers should seek additional sources and perspectives for a comprehensive understanding. No claims or guarantees regarding outcomes are made in relation to the content presented.