Overview

In She-Wolves: The Untold History of Women on Wall Street, award-winning historian Paulina Bren chronicles the incredible journey of the women who sought—and eventually gained—a piece of the action on Wall Street. From the humble beginnings of secretaries from Brooklyn and Queens, who first realized that making money might be within their grasp, to the trailblazing female graduates of Harvard Business School facing harsh realities, this book captures the evolution of a movement that transformed the financial landscape.

Content Description

Beginning in the swinging sixties, when “No Ladies” signs were commonplace at Wall Street’s luncheon clubs and brokerage houses, She-Wolves tells the story of a quiet revolution. Bren reveals how these women, often operating with subtlety and finesse, defied the entrenched sexism and racism of the financial world. With examples like Muriel “Mickie” Siebert—the first woman to buy a seat on the NYSE—who famously threatened to have port-a-potties delivered if a ladies’ room wasn’t installed, the book is as engaging as it is enraging.

The narrative is enriched by a series of historical vignettes, detailed contextual analysis, and a comprehensive timeline that traces the evolution of women’s roles on Wall Street from the sixties through 9/11. Bren's work offers a powerful and provocative look at the collision of gender, finance, and New York’s unique culture.

Visual and Illustrative Content

The book features 22 compelling illustrations that bring the vibrant history of women on Wall Street to life. These visuals complement the text by highlighting key moments, influential figures, and the cultural shifts that paved the way for modern gender equality in finance.

Book Details

ISBN-13: 9781324035152
ISBN-10: 1324035153

Conclusion

She-Wolves: The Untold History of Women on Wall Street is an illuminating and unapologetic account of how female pioneers transformed the world of finance. Paulina Bren's masterful narrative not only recounts the struggles and triumphs of these women but also challenges long-held notions of gender and power in a notoriously exclusive industry. This book is an essential read for anyone interested in understanding the evolution of Wall Street and the enduring impact of those who dared to break the mold.

Dive into this provocative and inspiring journey, and discover how the she-wolves of Wall Street changed the course of history.