The Forgotten Women of History: A Scandalous Look at Infamous Mistresses and Courtesans

Historians Jameela Jamil and Dr. Kate Lister explore the lives of infamous mistresses, concubines, and courtesans in a six-part series that delves into the dark humor and salacious details of their stories. From Virginia Hill, known as the "female Al Capone," to Wu Zhao, China's only female emperor, and the overlooked Boleyn sister, Mary, these women wielded secret power and defied the expectations of their time.

Key Takeaways:

• The series highlights the stories of six infamous mistresses, concubines, and courtesans, including Virginia Hill, Wu Zhao, and Mary Boleyn.
• These women wielded significant power and influence, often behind the scenes, and defied the expectations of their time.
• The series explores the dark humor and salacious details of their stories, offering a bold and fascinating look at women history tried to forget.
• Notable figures featured in the series include Charles Ponzi, a con artist who swindled investors out of a quarter of a billion dollars, and Wu Zhao, China's only female emperor.
• The series also highlights the importance of shaping a better future for the planet, tackling urgent environmental threats such as deforestation and climate change.
• Ambassador Cel Spellman hosts the third season of the WWF podcast, "Call of the Wild," with experts and high-profile guests discussing everyday choices and advocating for change.

Statistics:

• Charles Ponzi swindled investors out of the equivalent of a quarter of a billion dollars in 1920.
• Virginia Hill, known as the "female Al Capone," was a notorious gangster and mistress to several high-profile men.
• Wu Zhao, China's only female emperor, ruled from 690 to 705 AD and is considered one of history's most powerful women.
• The series explores six different stories of influential women, each with their own unique experiences and contributions to history.

Sources:

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• Jameela Jamil and Dr. Kate Lister's six-part series exploring the lives of infamous mistresses and courtesans.
• The BBC documentary series "Easy Money: The Charles Ponzi Story."
• The WWF podcast "Call of the Wild" hosted by ambassador Cel Spellman.