The first half of the 20th century saw an important rise in the women's liberation movement in China. Where traditions kept them indoors, young women from respectable families began to appear in public and actively involve themselves in normal social settings.

Here are some of the most legendary women during that period.

Meng Xiaodong, a well-known Peking Opera actress. She was extremely talented and often played male roles on stage. [Photo/gmw.cn]