The Defiant Poet: Qiu Jin's Revolutionary Journey

In this episode of 'She Changed History,' hosts Vicki and Kara delve into the life of Qiu Jin, a trailblazing Chinese feminist, poet, and revolutionary who defied societal expectations in the late Qing Dynasty. From her unhappy arranged marriage and struggles with foot-binding, Qiu Jin's fierce determination led her to Japan, where she embraced new ideologies and returned as a revolutionary leader. Exploring her poignant poetry, involvement in secret societies, and ultimate sacrifice, this story reveals Qiu Jin's indelible impact on Chinese history and women's rights.

00:00 Introduction and Casual Conversation
00:38 Spa Experience Gone Wrong
02:50 Introducing Chu Gin: A Rebel Poet
04:10 Chu Gin's Early Life and Struggles
05:17 The Painful Tradition of Foot Binding
08:06 Unhappy Marriage and Poetic Expression
09:50 The Boxer Rebellion and Chu Gin's Concerns
12:46 A New Life in Beijing
14:12 Chu Gin's Transformation and Feminist Awakening
16:56 Breaking Free: Leaving Her Husband
17:29 Chyna's Nora and Her Poetic Regrets
18:43 Arrival in Tokyo and the Rise of Feminism
19:54 Joining the Anti-Manchu Rebel Group
20:55 Influence of Japanese Military Spirit
21:47 The Revolutionary Alliance and Secret Societies
23:34 Return to China and Feminist Journalism
26:47 Training Young Revolutionaries
28:20 Final Years and Cross-Dressing
29:45 Capture and Execution
33:45 Legacy and National Heroine