Lithuania – Like Her

Salomea Halpir

Salomea Halpir (1718 – after 1763) was a trailblazing figure in medicine and oculistry, becoming the first female doctor from the Grand Duchy of Lithuania. Breaking societal norms, she assisted her husband in Constantinople, honing her medical skills in a fiercely competitive environment. Despite limited education, Salomea became a skilled physician specializing in cataract surgery, catering to female patients and bypassing strict Islamic traditions. She defied conventions and left a lasting impact on the field of medicine and society as a whole.

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Giedrė Purvaneckienė

Giedrė Purvaneckienė, born in Kaunas, Lithuanian Soviet Socialist Republic, is a prominent Lithuanian politician and academic known for her contributions to women’s studies and advocacy for gender equality. She has held various important positions in the government and academia, shaping policies and promoting women’s rights. Purvaneckienė’s dedication and accomplishments have made her an influential figure in women’s history.

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Lina Kaciusyte

Lina Kačiušytė, born on January 1, 1963 in Vilnius, Lithuanian SSR, is a renowned Lithuanian swimmer who competed for the Soviet Union. She made a significant impact in the world of swimming, leaving a lasting legacy through her remarkable achievements and contributions to the sport.

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Ona Šimaitė

Ona Šimaitė was a Lithuanian librarian at Vilnius University who risked her life to aid and rescue Jews in the Vilna Ghetto during World War II. She smuggled food, weapons, and documents into the ghetto, served as a mail carrier, and provided refuge for Jewish children. Despite being captured and tortured by the Gestapo, she survived and continued her work. She was recognized as a Righteous Among the Nations in 1966.

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Elena Kutorgienė

Elena Kutorgienė, a Lithuanian physician, played a courageous role during World War II by rescuing Jewish children from the Kovno Ghetto, hiding them in her home, and placing them in the homes of gentiles to save them from genocide. She also documented the harsh conditions faced by Soviet prisoners of war. Despite facing death threats, Kutorgienė’s compassionate actions earned her recognition as Righteous Among the Nations.

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Ona Mašiotienė

Ona Mašiotienė, a Lithuanian teacher and women’s rights activist, played a significant role in advocating for women’s rights and promoting Lithuania’s independence. Despite opposition from her own family, she pursued higher education and co-founded the Lithuanian Women’s Association. Mašiotienė’s dedication to education, equality, and Lithuania’s independence continues to inspire future generations.