Margaret Winters

**Margaret Winters Blackwood** (September 16, 1871– May 30, 1963) was an American politician and navy officer from Columbus, Georgia, who served not only as the first **Vice President of Terranova** but the first female Vice President from 1900 to 1957. Her legacy is defined by her contributions to the development of Terranova's navy and her advocacy for women's suffrage, which paved the way for greater political participation by women in the country. She spent 57 years in public service, and her dedication to her country and her progressive values made her a beloved and respected figure in Terranova's history. She is also a member of the Terranova Eight. She married Lawrence Blackwood's brother, Murphy Blackwood, in 1921 and had a daughter, Sally Blackwood, in 1923. She passed away in 1963 at the age of 92, leaving behind a lasting impact on Terranova's society and politics and inspiring future generations of women to pursue leadership roles in their communities.

During her tenure as vice president, Margaret Winters served under five presidents and was instrumental in the implementation of several key policies. Despite facing opposition from some conservative factions, Winters remained steadfast in her commitment to progress and equality for all Terranovans. She played a pivotal role in shaping Terranova's foreign policy and strengthening its diplomatic ties with other nations. Her leadership and dedication to public service continue to inspire generations of women in politics.

## Early Life

Margaret Nancy Winters was born on September 16, 1870, at her townhouse in Coulmbus, Georgia, to Jonathan Winters, a factory worker, and Nancy Bishop, a maid. She had two younger sisters, Diana and Lynda. She was raised in a poor, low class family but managed to receive a good education. She moved around a lot during her childhood due to her father's job and eventually settled in Washington, D.C., where she went to a private school where she met her best friend, Lawrence Blackwood. After graduating in 1880, she joined the army and became the first female lieutenant colonel. Margaret Nancy Winters was a trailblazer for women in the military and dedicated her life to serving her country. Her achievements paved the way for future generations of women to pursue careers in the armed forces. In 1888, she left the army and continued to advocate for women's rights and military service. She also worked as a journalist and wrote about her experiences in the army, inspiring others to follow in her footsteps until 1899. The president of the United States asked her, Lawrence, and seven others to travel to the Mediterranean Sea in search of a nuclear weapon known as the "death ray," which was rumored to exist on an unknown island. When they discovered an indigenous tribe that had invented the death ray, the president ordered them to kill everyone and bring it back. They negotiated with the tribe and convinced them to give them the death ray instead, and they took the death ray back to the mainland and gave it to the president in exchange. They decided to build their own America. They believed that the current government was corrupt and that they could create a better one. She was asked by Lawrence to serve under him and she said yes. On June 25, 1900, Margaret took the oath of office to become the first vice president of Terranova. She was a trailblazer for women in politics and brought a fresh perspective to the decision-making process, helping to shape the future of Terranova's government.