Born: 1882 (Tilburg, Netherlands)
Biography:
Maria Elisabeth Stellwag-Bes, also known as Marie Stellwag-Bes, was a remarkable Dutch chemical engineer and city councillor who made significant contributions to her field and fought for women’s rights. Born on January 14, 1882, in Tilburg, Netherlands, she was the daughter of Klaas Bes and Johanna Bes.
As a child, Bes showed exceptional intelligence and a strong passion for learning. In 1894, she became the first female student in Tilburg to be admitted to the secondary school after seeking special permission from the minister. Despite facing gender discrimination, she persevered and successfully completed her final school exams in 1899.
In 1900, Bes embarked on a groundbreaking journey as the first female student at the Polytechische School te Delft, studying in the Technology department. Four years later, on July 27, 1904, she achieved an extraordinary milestone by graduating in chemical engineering from the Polytechnic, becoming the first woman in the Netherlands to receive an engineering diploma. Her achievement broke barriers and inspired other women to pursue careers in STEM fields.
Bes’s talent and dedication did not go unnoticed, and she was appointed as an assistant in physics at her alma mater, which had been upgraded and renamed the Technische Hoogeschool Delft in 1905. In 1910, she became an assistant for theoretical and applied physics at the prestigious institution. Her brilliance and research contributions led to her being appointed as a permanent staff member in 1919.
Bes’s expertise in the field of engineering, particularly in physics, made her a highly respected figure in the academic and scientific community. Her research focused on various aspects of physics and applied engineering, contributing to advancements in the field. However, in 1926, she was forced to leave her position due to health issues, marking the end of her illustrious career in academia.
Beyond her scientific pursuits, Bes also had a deep passion for politics and women’s rights. In the 1910s, she joined the Vrijzinnig Democratische Bond (VBD), a progressive liberal political party in the Netherlands. Alongside influential women like Aletta Jacobs, she played a vital role in the establishment of the national Vrijzinnig Democratische Vrouwenclub (Liberal Democratic Women’s Club). Bes served as a member of the VBV’s central board, advocating for women’s suffrage and equal representation in politics.
In 1918, Bes ran as a candidate for the Liberal Democrats in the national Tweede Kamerverkiezingen, marking a historic moment as women had recently gained the right to stand for election. Although she was not elected, her candidacy represented a significant step forward for gender equality in politics. The following year, in 1919, Bes became the party leader for the VDB in the municipal elections in Delft, securing a seat on the city council until March 1920. During her tenure, she became known for her dedication to improving the lives of Delft’s residents and advocating for progressive reforms.
Maria Elisabeth Stellwag-Bes’s contributions extended beyond her professional and political achievements. As one of the first female engineering graduates and city councillors in Delft, she broke barriers and opened doors for future generations of women. Her determination, intelligence, and unwavering commitment to equality continue to inspire and empower women worldwide.