Ellen Kleman facts for kids
Ellen Emma Augusta Kleman (1867–1943) was an important Swedish writer, newspaper editor, and a strong supporter of women's rights. From 1907, she was the editor of Dagny, a magazine that supported the women's movement. Later, in 1914, she also edited Hertha until 1932.
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Ellen Kleman's Early Life and Work
Ellen Emma Augusta Kleman was born in Karlskrona, Sweden, in 1867. Her father was Carl Kleman, and her mother was Johanna Augusta Grahm. Ellen's older sister, Anna Kleman, was also very active in the women's movement, working for equal rights for women. After finishing school in Karlskrona, Ellen worked in banks in the cities of Uppsala and Stockholm.
Becoming a Voice for Women's Rights
Ellen Kleman was very passionate about women's rights. In 1907, she became the editor of Dagny. This magazine was the main publication for the women's movement in Sweden. Ellen wrote many articles herself, including reports from women's meetings and stories about famous women.
When Dagny stopped being published in 1913, Ellen became the editor of its new replacement, Hertha. She continued this important work from 1914 until 1932.
Leading the Fredrika Bremer Association
In 1921, Ellen Kleman joined the board of the Fredrika Bremer Association. This was a major organization in Sweden that worked for women's rights. From 1922 to 1931, she was the leader of its Stockholm branch.
Ellen became very interested in the founder of this association, Fredrika Bremer (1801–1865). She published a collection of essays about Bremer. Later, with her friend Klara Johanson, Ellen published four large books of Fredrika Bremer's letters. Ellen and Klara lived together from 1912 until Ellen passed away.
Ellen Kleman's Novel
Besides her work for the women's movement, Ellen Kleman also wrote a historical novel. It was called Fabian Wendts hustru (Fabian Wendt's Wife). This book was about women who were controlled by others and didn't have the chance to grow and develop themselves.
Awards and Recognition
In 1942, Ellen Kleman received a special honor. She was given the Illis Quorum medal. This is the highest award a Swedish person can receive for their contributions to society.
