The Women Who Cut Bullets From Their Own Bodies to Fight Wars
What Happened: Centuries of Women Warriors in Disguise
Throughout history, hundreds of women have disguised themselves as men to fight in wars, defying laws that banned them from military service and risking execution if discovered. These women bound their chests, deepened their voices, and learned to walk, talk, and fight like men—all for the chance to serve their countries, escape poverty, or pursue adventure.
Deborah Sampson’s story represents just one of countless examples spanning centuries. After serving 17 months in the Continental Army’s elite light infantry unit, she was eventually discovered when she fell ill with fever and a doctor treating her found her secret. Rather than face court martial, she received an honorable discharge—and later became the first woman to receive a military pension from the U.S. government.