Given that the much-debated CitiBike launch is less than two weeks away, our favorite long-form writers over at Narratively have delved into the history of cycling in the big city in a five-part series. Today's installment: a look at Annie Londonberry's epic attempt to cycle around the world in 1894, with included a three-week, much publicized-pit stop in New York City and was heralded as a symbol of women's independence. "I think it has done more to emancipate woman than any one thing in the world," suffragette Susan B. Anthony told the New York World at the time. "I rejoice every time I see a woman ride by on a wheel. It gives her a feeling of self-reliance and independence the moment she takes her seat; and away she goes, the picture of untrammeled womanhood." So next time you're complaining about a bike rack blocking your sidewalk, remembering a little bit of history will help. Okay, probably not. [Narratively; full series]
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