Ebba Hultqvist (suffragist) facts for kids
Ebba Karolina Regina Hultqvist (1876–1955) was an important Swedish woman. She was a teacher, a strong supporter of women's right to vote, and one of the first women to become a politician. For over 30 years, starting in 1908, she taught at a school in Sölvesborg. She was very active in the movement for women's suffrage (the right to vote). Ebba also led the local women's group of the Liberal Party. She made history by being the first woman elected to the Sölvesborg Town Council. Ebba Hultqvist also gave money to help music, education, and childcare in her town.
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Who Was Ebba Hultqvist?
Ebba Hultqvist was a dedicated woman who made a big difference in her community and for women's rights. She was born in Stockholm, Sweden, on November 10, 1876. Sadly, both her parents passed away before she was five years old.
Early Life and Education
Ebba was raised by foster parents, Anders Svensson and Josefina Jonasdotter. They were crofters, which means they farmed a small piece of rented land, in Torhamn, Blekinge. Her foster parents gave her a good home and helped her get an education. She trained to become a schoolteacher. Ebba earned her first teaching diploma in 1896. Ten years later, she became a qualified public school teacher.
A Dedicated Teacher
In 1908, Ebba Hultqvist started working as a full-time teacher. She taught at Möllebacksskolan (Mölleback School) in Sölvesborg. She stayed at this school for more than 30 years, helping many students learn and grow. Her dedication to education was clear. She even became a teacher representative on the school council. She also joined the board of the local lecturing society and led the town's sickness benefit association.
A Pioneer in Politics
Ebba Hultqvist was a member of the Liberal Party. In 1913, she achieved something very important: she became the first woman ever elected to the Sölvesborg Town Council. This was a huge step forward for women in politics. She continued to support the Liberal Party throughout her life.
Fighting for Women's Rights
Ebba was a strong believer in votes for women. She led the local group of the National Association for Women's Suffrage (Sweden). This organization worked hard to get women the right to vote. In 1912, she also became the chairperson for the Blekinge County branch of this association. She worked alongside other important suffragists like Sigrid Kruse and Augusta Tonning.
Helping Her Community
Ebba Hultqvist was also very generous. She helped people in her community who were struggling financially. She donated money to support many local activities in Sölvesborg. This included helping with music, education, Christmas celebrations, and travel. She wanted to make her town a better place for everyone.
Ebba Hultqvist passed away on December 17, 1955. Her life showed how one person can make a big difference as a teacher, a politician, and a champion for women's rights.
