“A Will of Their Own: 
Judith Murray and Women of Achievement in the Early Republic” showcases the important achievements of women during the late eighteenth and early nineteenth centuries. At the center of the exhibition is an oil painting of Judith Sargent Murray by John Singleton Copley (c. 1769), loaned by the Terra Foundation for American Art (TFAA).  During this session for educators, you’ll be introduced to Murray and seven other remarkable women highlighted in the exhibition. Learn about the early days of this nation and efforts to gain gender equality in America.  We’ll discuss women’s contributions in relation to the women’s rights movements that came after, from the late nineteenth century to today, as well as how to make this history connect with students in the classroom.

*While this session is intended for educators, students might enjoy the featured content presented in the latter 35 minutes of the session.

“A Will of Their Own” Session Schedule:

•  Introduction of Online Session, by Moderator Adam LaFaci
•  Review of Student Digital Badge Opportunities, by Smithsonian Education Technician Ashley Naranjo
•  Featured Content, by Smithsonian National Portrait Gallery Education Specialist Briana Zavadil White