While 2005 definitely had its (many) crappy moments for women, last year also marked a number of political gains for women across the world.

Liberia elected Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf, making her the first female president in Africa.

68 Afghan women won seats in the 249-member legislature.

Angela Merkel became Germany's first female chancellor.

Two women in Saudi Arabia's were elected to the chamber of commerce board, making them the country’s first female elected officials.

The Japanese government is submitting a bill to parliament this month that will allow women to ascend the throne.

The number of female members of parliament worldwide reached an all-time high of 6,960 (16.1 percent).