Born: 1886 (Bakhchysaray, Crimea, Tavrida Governorate, Russian Empire)
Died: 1975 (Istanbul, Turkey)
Biography:
Şefika Gaspıralı (Crimean Tatar: Şefiqa Gasprinskaya; Russian: Шефика Исмаиловна Гаспринская; 1886 Bakhchysaray, Crimea, Tavrida Governorate, Russian Empire – 1975 Istanbul, Turkey) was an influential figure in the Turkish women’s cultural and political awakening in Russia at the beginning of the 20th century. She was the daughter and most important assistant of İsmail Gaspıralı, a thinker, publisher, educator, politician, and reformer. Şefika Gaspıralı played a significant role in the Turkish Women’s Movement and was a pioneer in promoting women’s rights and women’s education.
Born on November 21, 1886, in Bakhchysaray, Crimea, Şefika Gaspıralı was raised in a family deeply committed to education. Her father, İsmail Gaspıralı, made sure she received a good education and taught her how to read and write. She continued her education at her father’s Usûl-ü Cedit School in Crimea, where she received a well-rounded education that included various subjects such as literature, languages, and sciences.
After the death of her mother when she was just 17 years old, Şefika Gaspıralı took on the responsibility of managing the house and became her father’s indispensable assistant. She played a crucial role in the management of the publications of the Tercüman newspaper, handling correspondence and translations from Russian, as well as postal and distribution works.
In 1903, Şefika Gaspıralı wrote her first article for Tercüman, marking the beginning of her writing career. During this time, she met Nesib Bey Yusufbeyli, a young man who frequented her father’s circle. Their correspondence, which initially focused on political issues, soon turned into an emotional connection. In 1906, after their marriage, Şefika Gaspıralı became the head of her father’s new publication, Alem-i Nisvan (Women’s World). This magazine aimed to improve the low social status of women in Russia and promote women’s education and employment opportunities. Şefika Gaspıralı played a vital role in informing, guiding, encouraging, and organizing Turkish women through the articles published in Alem-i Nisvan. The magazine also provided detailed information about women and women’s movements in the Turkish and Islamic world.
During this period, Şefika Gaspıralı and her husband Nesib Bey Yusufbeyli, along with her brother Rıfat Bey, took on the responsibility of running Tercüman. They faced numerous challenges but continued to persevere. In 1908, Şefika Gaspıralı gave birth to their daughter Zehra, followed by their son Niyazi a year later.
Şefika Gaspıralı’s contributions extended beyond her work in publications. She also worked as a kindergarten instructor, emphasizing the importance of early childhood education. Her dedication to education and women’s rights made her an influential figure in Turkish society and the Turkish women’s movement.
Throughout her life, Şefika Gaspıralı remained committed to promoting women’s empowerment, education, and equal rights. She played a fundamental role in shaping the Turkish Women’s Movement in Russia, leaving a lasting impact on Turkish women’s history. Her work and dedication continue to inspire generations of women to strive for equality and make a difference in society.
Awards:
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