Women in the Department of History

An Introduction 

Mary Elizabeth Berry, Class of 1944 Professor of History Emerita

One hundred fifty years ago, on October 3, 1870, the Board of Regents 150W Logounanimously approved the resolution: “That young ladies be admitted into the University on equal terms in all respects with young men.” Units across the campus are marking the anniversary by honoring “the remarkable women who have studied at, worked for, and contributed to UC Berkeley” and, more broadly, the “gender diversity and inclusivity in our vibrant academic community” (Carol Christ, in a letter of 4/12/20). Find extensive information about the project at 150 Years of Women at Berkeley

The contributions of our department to this project began with a focus on our women faculty. In June, 2021 we added “A Survey of Women Recipients of Ph.D.s." That link, below, will take readers to an aggregate data chart (1950-2019) as well as brief bios of 124 women who received the degree between 1919 and 1979. It will also take readers to a list, provided by the Department of History, of all Ph.D. recipients from 1950 to 2000. In addition to enriching this material and expanding it in time, we hope that members of our extended community will help build sections on current students, staff, and friends and family. Thematic sections would also be wonderful. No boundaries! Please be in touch with us by clicking the “Comments” title. We welcome partners ready to push past start on many topics. (Contributions to the “Voices” section are encouraged from everyone!) With great gratitude and admiration, I salute Maya Sisneros for her brilliant work on this site.