Amelia Earhart's feminist legacy

"Women, like men, should try to do the impossible. And, when they fail, their failure should be a challenge to others. --- Amelia Earhart



Amelia Earhart's disappearance on July 2, 1937 remains one of the 20th century's greatest mysteries.

But the lore surrounding her disappearance overshadows her feminist accomplishment. Not only did she set many aviation records -- but she took on the masculinized world of aviation and opened the door for other women to follow in her steps.

Today, over 70 years later, the fact that there are over 7,000 women commercial pilots testifies to her accomplishment and stands as her legacy.

Thanks to her bravery, women are soaring into the heavens -- and even into space.

Here is an episode of one of my favorite PBS shows, "History Detectives."

Elyse Luray investigates whether a family heirloom is actually part of Earhart's plane.

Watch the full episode. See more History Detectives.