Born: 1881 (Montevideo, Uruguay)
Died: June 1913 (Lomas de Zamora, Buenos Aires Province, Argentina)
Biography:
Irma Avegno (20 December 1881 – June 1913) was a remarkable Uruguayan woman who defied societal norms and made a significant impact in the realm of finance. Born into a privileged family in Montevideo, Irma was the daughter of Emilio Avegno and María de Ávila. Her family had strong ties to the land and were prominent members of the Colorado Party, a significant political force at the time. Irma’s father served as a deputy for the Artigas Department, while her uncle, Dr. José Romeu, held the position of Secretary of State during the second government of José Batlle y Ordóñez.
From an early age, Irma Avegno displayed a rebellious and independent spirit, challenging the traditional expectations placed upon women in her society. She refused to conform to the restrictive gender roles dictated by the patriarchy, instead choosing to immerse herself in the world of finance. In a time where women were rarely involved in financial matters, Irma became a pioneering figure as a moneylender. Her business acumen and shrewd investment decisions soon earned her a reputation as a savvy entrepreneur.
Irma’s involvement in what were considered male-dominated activities did not end with finance. She also had a deep passion for horse racing and was known for her active participation in betting on races. This further solidified her image as a liberal and transgressive individual who fearlessly defied societal expectations. Additionally, Irma’s openly acknowledged homosexuality, albeit implicitly due to the time period, added to the public’s perception of her as a trailblazer.
Tragically, Irma Avegno’s life was cut short under mysterious circumstances. Fleeing from Uruguayan justice due to mounting debts, she sought refuge in Lomas de Zamora, Buenos Aires Province, Argentina. However, her escape and the subsequent scandal caused by her outstanding debts sent shockwaves through the government of José Batlle y Ordóñez. Ultimately, Irma’s life ended in tragedy when she was found deceased, the official cause of death being suicide. Her body was transported back to Montevideo, where she was laid to rest in the Central Cemetery amidst a crowd of mourners awaiting the arrival of the steamer Roma.
Irma Avegno’s life is a testament to her resilience and determination to challenge the status quo. From her groundbreaking involvement in financial affairs to her refusal to conform to societal expectations of gender and sexuality, she left an indelible mark on Uruguayan society. Irma Avegno’s story represents the spirit of defiance and individuality, serving as an inspiration for generations of women to come.