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This French archaeologist broke the law—by wearing pants
Jane Dieulafoy wore men's clothes in the 1800s, but France looked the other way. She became a celebrity, renowned for discovering ancient Persian treasures.
Jane Dieulafoy defied a 100-year-old law when she donned trousers. It had been illegal for Parisian women to wear pants since November 1800. Historians believe the rule was a response to women’s demand for “Liberté, Egalité, Fraternité” and the right to hold male jobs and wear male clothing. In the late 19th century, exceptions were granted for people engaged in bicycle riding or horseback riding. Jane Dieulafoy’s privilege of wearing pants all the time was uncommon, but her celebrity made her nonconformity more socially accepted. The law remained in place until 2013, when it was formally revoked by the French government.
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