Born: 1857
Died: 1913
Biography:
Alexandra Gripenberg, also known as Alexandra van Grippenberg, was a Finnish social activist, author, editor, newspaper publisher, and elected politician. Born in 1857 into a noble Swedish-speaking family, Gripenberg became a leading figure in the movement for women’s rights in Finland during the turn of the 20th century.
Gripenberg played a crucial role in the establishment of the first official women’s rights organization in Finland, the Suomen Naisyhdistys (Finnish Women’s Association), in Helsinki in 1884. She became an active member of the association and served as its president for two terms, from 1889 to 1904 and again from 1909 until her death in 1913.
In her pursuit of women’s rights, Gripenberg embarked on a transformative journey to England and the United States between 1887 and 1888. During her travels, she studied the women’s movements in these countries, gathering valuable insights and experiences. Inspired by her time abroad, Gripenberg authored a book titled A Half Year in the New World, published in 1889.
In the same year, Gripenberg founded one of the earliest Finnish women’s magazines called Koti ja Yhteiskunta, which was published until December 1911. She not only established the magazine but also served as its editor-in-chief. The magazine acted as the official organ of the Suomen Naisyhdistys, strengthening the voice of the women’s rights movement.
Gripenberg’s dedication to women’s rights extended beyond Finland’s borders. From 1893 to 1899, she served as the treasurer of the International Council of Women, furthering the cause on an international scale.
A significant milestone in Finland’s history occurred in 1906 when women were granted suffrage. Gripenberg herself played a vital role in this achievement. In 1907, she became one of the nineteen women elected into the Parliament of Finland, making her one of the first women to hold such a position. Gripenberg was elected through the Finnish Party, despite facing difficulties as a Swedish-speaking member in a Finnish-speaking party that primarily enjoyed grassroots support in the Finnish countryside. Gripenberg remained a member of the party until 1909.
Alexandra Gripenberg’s legacy lives on as a pioneering figure in the fight for women’s rights in Finland. Her tireless activism, leadership, and contributions as a writer and publisher continue to inspire future generations to advocate for equality. Gripenberg’s unwavering commitment to advancing women’s rights remains an integral part of Finland’s rich historical tapestry.