Ellen Johnson Sirleaf

Ellen Johnson Sirleaf married as a teenager and was a mother of four before she had a college degree. But her remarkable life was characterized by beating the odds. Despite an abusive husband, political persecution, and frequent fear for her life, she was elected President of Liberia in 2005 -- becoming the first democratically elected female head of state in all of Africa. Sponsors! Bombas - Save 20% on your first purchase when you shop at Bombas.com/HISTORICAL. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices