Welcome back, Her Story! You may remember this popular series from years ago—we missed it, so we decided to revitalize it! Join us as we discover some of the most interesting, inspiring, and influential women in history.

Born 1651 – Died 1695

Why We Should Care: Sor Cruz (Sister Cruz) was an indignant soul who, despite being unable to read books due to discriminatory law against women and girls, became a self-taught and historically renowned poet and writer. As a young teenager, Sor Cruz was sent to Mexico City and refused entrance into university because of her gender. After causing family dismay at the suggestion of disguising herself as a male to attend university, Sor Cruz took up private and illegal lessons. Later in life, Sor Cruz became a public and outspoken pioneer for women’s rights to education. Sor Cruz then became a nun and served the sick and elderly, dying after working with a community of nuns affected with the plague.

Three Things We Admire: Her dedication and passion for knowledge and education, her commitment to serving the sick, and her badass attitude that got her what she wanted in life.

In Her Own Words: “I walk beneath your pens, and am not what I truly am, but what you’d prefer to imagine me.” (Yes! She was an amazing poet!) And: “If Aristotle had done some cooking he would have written more.”

For Her Biopic We’d Cast: Salma Hayek. We respect this fellow Mexican for her ability to play outstanding and powerful (and badass) women. She played historical artist Frida Kahlo in Frida, a role that won her an Academy Award. We trust Hayek could bring Sor Cruz back to life in an emotional and powerful portrayal.