In her new book, It Takes Two, Cathy Newman rewrites the history books to expose the power of two throughout the ages and bring the stories of inspirational couples to the fore. 

An extract from Cathy Newman's new book It Takes Two

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As neither she nor William could read or write, Ellen put her right arm in a sling to deter port authorities or hotel receptionists from asking her to sign documents or registries

Samuel Coleridge Taylor and Jessie Walmisley 

Claude Cahun and Marcel Moore

One of the most fascinating things about the Ladies of Llangollen from a modern viewpoint is their dandyish invention of themselves as living works of art. They powdered their hair and wore black riding habits and other male clothing

In an extract from award-winning journalist Cathy Newman's new book It Takes Two, we look at four maverick couples that history has forgotten. 

4 forgotten couples from history whose badass stories will inspire you