Annie Oakley survived the harsh, younger years of her life. She grew up isolated from her family, stricken with poverty and hunger. With these hardships though, she grew into an independent, graceful and successful woman known all around the world for her talents; talents of which were believed to be only for men. When Oakley rose to the spotlight, women were fighting for equality and more rights within society. Although she was a huge hit during these times, Oakley did not partake in any of women’s fights. She continued to convey her sophistication and respectable image and followed her passions and love of shooting for herself. Although she was not a true feminist, she was undoubtedly an impeccable role model and specimen for women of the 1980s to look up to and strive to become.
Oakley first began shooting at the age of fifteen, after her father passed away. Instead of attending school, she picked up his gun and taught herself how to shoot a rifle. Soon, she was raising money for her family by selling the animals she shot; this already was not lady like, but she continued and raised enough money to cover her family’s debt. With her shooting, Oakley met Frank Butler, a man also known for his gifted …show more content…
As she worked to keep this persona everywhere she traveled, she gave the notion of feminism. As women were rising for their rights, such as the right to vote during Oakley’s era, people believed Oakley was a feminist standing for independence and strength for women. It is reasonable to deem such beliefs, but Oakley was only living the life she wanted by following her passions; she did this for herself, not for feminism. Oakley did not even believe women should vote or become involved in any politics; she believed men reserved those