# The Lady Vanishes [The Lady Vanishes](https://www.pushkin.fm/episode/the-lady-vanishes/) is an episode of [[Revisionist History]] which shows that [[Exceptional Outsiders Are Often Used to Extend Conservatism]]. Exceptional outsiders are often included in conservative organizations so that they can alleviate critics' concerns. Gladwell gives two examples: of Elizabeth Thompson, a painter, and of Julia Gillard, ex Prime Minister of Australia. A painting by Thompson (*The Roll Call*) is prominently displayed by the Royal Academy but she was later denied membership. And Gillard was the first female P.M. of Australia. Gladwell thinks it'll be a while until we meet the second. Ana Brnabic also comes to mind.