Catalina San Martín facts for kids

Catalina San Martín was born in Lerma, Spain, on July 28, 1896, and passed away in Tres Cantos, Spain, around the year 2000. She was a very important person in Spanish history. She became the mayor of Rivas-Vaciamadrid, a town near Madrid, for a short time during a period called the Second Spanish Republic.

At the time she became mayor, Catalina was a teacher at the local school. Many people believe she was the first woman mayor in Spain to be chosen by universal suffrage. This means that all adults, including women, had the right to vote for her.

Catalina's Political Journey

After the Second Spanish Republic was declared, a new law was passed in December 1932. This law changed how city councils worked. All the old council members were removed, and new groups were formed to manage the city. Catalina San Martín, who was a school teacher, was chosen to lead one of these new groups.

The next year, in April 1933, there were local elections. Catalina decided to run for mayor. She won the election and became the official mayor of Rivas-Vaciamadrid. This was a special moment because she was the only known woman who first led a temporary city group and then was truly elected mayor by the people.

Catalina received 204 votes in the election. The next three candidates, who were all men, each received 201 votes. This showed how much support she had from the community.

Historians are not sure if Catalina was part of a specific political party. However, they think she might have been close to the Partido Republicano Radical. She was also friends with important figures like Diego Martínez Barrio and had a good relationship with Clara Campoamor, who was a famous supporter of women's rights.

Challenges During the Civil War

During the Spanish Civil War, Catalina and her husband faced difficult times. They were stopped by police near Sedano. She was held for a short time and faced a trial. During this trial, she bravely stated her beliefs. She spent the rest of her life in Madrid with her family. Catalina San Martín lived a very long life, passing away at over 100 years old.

See also

In Spanish: Catalina San Martín para niños