Women’s History Month 2009 honors women in science

March has historically been Women’s History Month in the United States. In keeping this year’s theme, "Women Taking the Lead to Save our Planet," President Obama and the country honor women who have worked to protect the environment for current and future generations.

Among the women he mentioned, Obama cited : Ellen Swallow Richards, the first woman to be accepted at a scientific school (graduated MIT in 1873); Marjory Stoneman Douglas, who dedicated her life to protecting the Everglades; and Rachel Carson, who wrote the famous book "Silent Spring" about the pesticide DDT.

To learn more, please read the Washington Post article or visit the National Women’s History Project web site.