Maria Quitéria: A Heroine of Independence

Maria Quitéria wanted to fight for Brazil’s independence — but in 1822, the army didn’t

accept women. So she cut her hair, stole her father’s clothes, and enlisted under

a false name. What she lacked in formal training, she made up for in pure skill.

She became one of the regiment’s sharpest shooters, fearless in battle, and so effective

that officers kept promoting her despite suspecting the truth. When her identity was finally discovered,

they didn’t dismiss her. They kept her — because she was simply too good

to lose. Maria Quitéria earned military honors, impressed Emperor Pedro I,

and fought until Brazil secured its freedom. But after the war, she returned to