Born: 1825 (Växjö, Sweden)
Died: 1902 (New York City, United States)
Biography:
Sophie Sager, born in Växjö, Sweden in 1825 and passed away in New York City, United States in 1902, was a prominent Swedish writer and feminist. She played a crucial role as one of the first feminist activists and speakers for the early women’s movement in Sweden.
Sager hailed from a wealthy family and received her education in a girls’ school. However, as an adult, she faced financial difficulties and worked as a governess to support herself. Determined to establish her own dress shop, Sager pursued education as a tailor in Stockholm in 1848.
In Stockholm, Sager encountered an elderly man named Möller who offered her a place to stay. However, this act of kindness took a devastating turn as Möller sexually assaulted her in her bed. Despite her harrowing experience, Sager fiercely resisted Möller’s advances, managing to thwart an actual rape. Eventually, she managed to escape his house and sought help from a doctor who documented her injuries and encouraged her to report Möller to the authorities.
Reporting rape, especially voluntarily, was extremely unusual during this time as it carried immense shame. The Sager Case, as it came to be known, attracted widespread attention in the press. Möller attempted to discredit Sager by claiming her insanity, but the court sided with Sager, swayed by the doctor’s medical report. Möller was ultimately found guilty of attempted rape and violence, marking a significant legal victory for Sager and drawing attention to the plight of women in society.
Following the highly publicized trial, Sager emerged as one of the pioneers of the emerging women’s movement in Sweden. She embarked on nationwide speaking tours, advocating for women’s rights. Sager highlighted the passivity of women arising from their limited rights and inadequate education. She took her own experience as an example, noting that her education in a girls’ school mainly focused on French and etiquette.
Sager’s activism extended beyond her speeches. In 1852, she published her autobiography, titled Bilder ur livet. Ett fosterbarns avslöjande genealogi (Images of Life: The Revealing Tale of a Foster Child), offering a poignant account of her experiences. Her book shed light on the challenges faced by women and furthered the discourse on gender inequality.
In 1854, Sager relocated to the United States, where she continued her involvement in the American women’s movement. She married E. A. Wiener, a music teacher, and remained dedicated to the cause of gender equality.
Sophie Sager was a trailblazer who fearlessly challenged societal norms and fought for women’s rights. Her invaluable contributions as an advocate, writer, and survivor of sexual assault serve as an enduring legacy in women’s history.