Mavericks: Life Stories and Lessons of History's Most Extraordinary Misfits

In her first book, popular TikTok historian J Draper uses her characteristic wit and intellect to introduce us to extraordinary figures marginalized by history, and the lessons we can learn from them. Witty and engaging TikTok historian J.D. Draper digs out unusual stories of individuals that have shaped the world, and discovers the lessons their unique experiences can teach us. Breaking away from history as told through the lens of kings, queens and nobles, this book instead lifts the lid on 24 fascinating stories of little-known underdogs, mavericks, trailblazers and oddballs. Through these stories you will meet characters such as: The Chevalier d'Eon - a fencing master, spy and diplomat who came out as a woman in 18th-century London Ellen and William Craft - a married couple who made a daring escape from slavery in the American south Peter the Wild Boy - a child found living in the woods in Germany who was taken to the royal court in England Caroline Herschel - the first Briti