Fabulous, famous and filthy rich

Five women who changed the world

Throughout history, some of the world’s richest women chose to use their money to help others. Instead of focusing only on luxury or personal comfort, they worked to improve education, health, culture, and living conditions for many people. The five women below are remembered not only for their great wealth but also for their strong desire to make life better for others.

I. Madam C. J. Walker (1867–1919)

Madam C. J. Walker became one of the first self-made female millionaires in the United States. She built a hair-care business for Black women and offered many of them jobs. Walker used her money to help African American communities, giving it to schools and organisations. She also helped students with scholarships and spoke strongly about equal rights.

II. Angela Burdett-Coutts (1814–1906)

Angela Burdett-Coutts inherited a large fortune from her family’s bank. She spent much of her money helping poor families in London. She gave money to schools, paid for clean water, and worked on projects for young women in need. Because of her charitable work, Queen Victoria made her a baroness.

III. Isabella Stewart Gardner (1840–1924)

Isabella Stewart Gardner loved art and travelled widely to collect paintings and other objects. She used her wealth to build a museum in Boston so that everyone could enjoy her collection. Gardner also helped young artists and musicians by giving them chances to develop their skills. Her museum is still open today.

IV. Anne Morgan (1873–1952)

Anne Morgan, the daughter of banker J. P. Morgan, spent many years helping people in difficult situations. During World War I, she went to France to help civilians. She organised volunteers, provided food and clothing, and helped rebuild damaged towns. Later, she supported women’s education and workers’ rights. She received the French Legion of Honour for her work.

V. Doris Duke (1912–1993)

Doris Duke inherited a huge fortune from her father. She gave large amounts of money to medical research, especially for children’s health. She also helped protect historic buildings in the United States and Hawaii. Later, she created a charitable foundation that continues to support the arts, the environment, and programmes for children and families.