Hilda Käkikoski facts for kids
Hilda Maria Käkikoski (born January 31, 1864 – died November 14, 1912) was an important Finnish politician, writer, and teacher. She made history as one of the first 19 women elected to the Parliament of Finland in 1907. This was a very big step for women's rights in Finland.
Contents
Early Life and Education
Hilda Maria Sjöström was born in Lapinjärvi, Finland, in 1864. She grew up in the countryside and was known for being quite adventurous and independent. When she was just 14 years old, Hilda moved to Helsinki all by herself. She went to a girls' high school there, thanks to a scholarship.
While in Helsinki, Hilda showed her independent spirit. She cut her hair short, which was unusual for women at the time. She also changed her Swedish family name, Sjöström, to Käkikoski. This was a Finnish name, like her neighbors had.
After high school, Hilda worked as a home tutor for a few years. In 1888, she went to university. She studied Finnish and Nordic history and earned a special degree in 1895. This was a big achievement for a woman in her time.
A Teacher and Role Model
From 1891 to 1902, Hilda Käkikoski worked as a teacher in a Helsinki school. She taught history and the Finnish language. Her students found her very interesting because she had many unique habits and interests.
Hilda was a vegetarian, which was not common back then. She also enjoyed being a gymnast and riding a bicycle. She sometimes wore clothes that were more masculine, and she had a very confident personality. These things made her stand out and inspired many people around her.
Fighting for Women's Rights
Hilda Käkikoski became very interested in feminism, which is the idea that women should have the same rights as men. She also strongly supported women's suffrage, meaning women's right to vote.
She joined the Finnish Women's Association and wrote many articles for their magazine. She became the vice president of this important association in 1895 and held that role until 1904.
In 1907, something amazing happened in Finland. For the first time, women were allowed to vote and also run for election to parliament. Hilda Käkikoski decided to run with the conservative Finnish Party. She won the election in her district, Uusimaa. This made her one of the first 19 women ever elected to the Finnish Parliament. This was a huge moment for women's rights around the world.
Hilda served in parliament, but she did not run for re-election in 1910 because of health problems.
Writer and Historian
Besides her political work, Hilda Käkikoski was also a talented writer. She wrote songs for children, poetry, and short stories.
In 1902, she started a big project: writing a four-book history of Finland. She worked on this project until she passed away in 1912. Sadly, she was not able to finish all four books.
Images for kids
-
Hilda Käkikoski (far right, sitting on table) with other Finnish teachers in 1891.
See also
In Spanish: Hilda Käkikoski para niños
