Welsh Women on This Day

“Following on from their On this Day in Welsh History: 366 Facts You Probably Didn’t Know (2022), this time the authors offer up 366 snippets of the history of women in Wales, ‘to intrigue and inspire each day of the year’.

While some stories are unavoidably sad or distressing (history hasn’t always been kind to women - something the authors point out in the preface), it is heartening to see the many contributions of women throughout the ages, from the Age of Saints to the present day, fill the pages.

We meet pioneers and champions, from musicians to politicians, sporting greats, educators, campaigners and many more.

We also witness some of Wales’ historic events and milestones through the eyes of women, a perspective that has so often been overlooked and learn of the women from myth and legend who form the stories of our nation.

The women honored by the Purple Plaques campaign are present in the pages, along with each of those recently commemorated with statues by the Monumental Welsh Women Group, the first ever statues of ‘real’ women in Wales.

This is a beautifully produced book from the University of Wales Press’ non-fiction imprint Calon. Bonus facts along with illustrations are peppered throughout, and the format allows readers to dip in and out, engaging with history in an extremely accessible way.”– “Nation.Cymru”

Huw Rees and Sian Kilcoyne are Welsh authors and collaborators. Welsh Women on This Day is their second book and the follow-up to their popular debut, Wales on This Day. They co-run The History of Wales Facebook page.