Annie Oakley was the original power girl in an age when most women stayed home. During the late 19th century, Annie Oakley became a famous sharpshooter and daredevil horseback rider with Buffalo Bill's Wild West Show. Illustrations. You want girl power? Meet Annie Oakley! Born in 1860, she became one of the best-loved and most famous women of her generation. She amazed audiences all over the world with her sharpshooting, horse-riding, action-packed performances. In an age when most women stayed home, she traveled the world and forged a new image for American women.