Chile – Like Her

Eloísa Díaz

Eloísa Díaz Inzunza was a remarkable Chilean medical doctor who paved the way for women in the field of medicine. Born in Santiago, Chile in 1866, she became the first female medical student to attend the University of Chile. In 1886, she graduated and became the first woman in South America to earn her medical license. Throughout her career, Díaz dedicated herself to public health, disease prevention, and women’s rights, leaving behind a lasting legacy for future generations of female doctors. She passed away in 1950, but her memory and contributions continue to be celebrated.

ChileActivistEducator

María Rivera Urquieta

María Mercedes Rivera Urquieta, a renowned professor and feminist, played a significant role in advancing women’s rights and empowering women in Chile. As one of the founding members of the Pro-Emancipation Movement of Chilean Women, she worked tirelessly to champion feminist ideals and create a platform for women’s voices to be heard. Her dedication extended internationally, where she represented numerous organizations and participated in discussions on nuclear power and atomic bomb use. Rivera’s contributions have left a lasting impact on society, making her a prominent figure in Chilean women’s history.

ChileMatadora

Conchita Cintrón

Conchita Cintrón, widely regarded as the most famous female bullfighter in history, broke gender barriers and inspired others with her grace, style, and bravery in the bullring. Born in 1922 in Antofagasta, Chile, she began her career in bullfighting at a young age and gained popularity in various countries. Despite facing legal challenges, her impact on the history of bullfighting and society as a whole is undeniable.

ChileActivistLawyer

María Soledad Cisternas

María Soledad Cisternas Reyes, a Chilean lawyer and disability rights activist, has dedicated her career to advocating for the rights and empowerment of individuals with disabilities. Despite facing personal challenges, she has left an indelible mark on Chilean society and the global stage, shaping the international framework for disability rights and driving the agenda for greater accessibility and inclusion. Her accomplishments have established a powerful legacy that continues to inspire future generations to champion the rights of marginalized individuals.

ChileLawyer

Alicia Herrera Rivera

Alicia Herrera Rivera (1928-2013) was a prominent Chilean feminist lawyer and minister of the Court of Appeals of Santiago. Growing up in Valparaíso, she developed a love for reading and learning. Exiled during the oppressive Pinochet regime, she continued her fight for justice from abroad, co-founding the Association of Women Jurists Themis. Her legacy as a champion for gender equality and human rights lives on.

ChileEducatorPoet

Gabriela Mistral

Gabriela Mistral, born Lucila Godoy Alcayaga, was a renowned Chilean poet-diplomat, educator, and humanist. She was the first Latin American author to receive the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1945. Despite facing financial difficulties in her early life, Mistral’s powerful and introspective poetry resonated with emotions of nature, love, sorrow, and recovery. She also emphasized the importance of education as a means to empower marginalized individuals. Mistral’s contributions have made her a literary icon and symbol of Latin American aspirations.

ChileAstronomerAstrophysicist

María Teresa Ruiz

María Teresa Ruiz is a Chilean astronomer known for being the first woman to receive Chile’s National Prize for Exact Sciences and the first female recipient of a doctorate in astrophysics at Princeton University. She has made significant contributions to the field of astrophysics and has been dedicated to inspiring future generations of scientists.