Amazing Annie

Annie cycled around the world in 1894, captivating local audiences along the way with fancifully exaggerated stories of her escapades, and proving that a Jewish immigrant woman could far exceed society's expectation.Annie Kopchovsky was ready for a change. More than ready, for women in her time and position weren’t allowed to do very much except marry and have children.Annie wanted more. She didn't like washing clothes or cooking meals, and she certainly didn't like how her Boston neighbors looked down on her for being Jewish. She wanted excitement and adventure in her life. She wanted to feel exceptional, to be applauded, not snubbed. So when she heard of a new invention—a bicycle—she had an exceptional and outlandish idea. She decided to be the first woman to ride around the world on one.Along the way, Annie learned more than just how to ride a bike. She realized people enjoyed hearing her stories, even if they weren't necessarily true, and she could draw them in. And Annie loved inventing stories.