[1] From 2010 Lisbeth Larsson (1949–2021), a professor of literary studies, tried to create a more general dictionary with a focus on women to give a fairer picture of history (together with Inger Eriksson, operations manager at KvinnSam).

The original plan was to publish a book but it was later decided to compile a database which could be accessed as a web-based dictionary.

The dictionary contains biographies of women who, across several centuries and in many different ways, have contributed to society's development, both within Sweden and beyond.

The entries, based on a mix of existing and brand-new research, were mainly selected with an emphasis on societal significance rather than personal fame.

The selection includes female pioneers and women who fought for gender equality as well as those of historical significance.