Johanne Andersen (women's rights activist) facts for kids
Johanne Kirstine Andersen (1862–1925) was a Danish women's rights activist. She worked hard to make life better for women. In 1908, she helped start a local group of the Danish Women's Society in Balslev-Ejby, a town on the island of Funen. She led this group and later became a leader in the national organization. Johanne was especially keen on helping women in the countryside. She encouraged them to get involved in planning for their homes and helping with school canteens. After Danish women gained the right to vote in 1915, she joined the Venstre party. She tried to get elected to the Danish parliament in 1918 but did not win a seat in the main house.
About Johanne Andersen
Johanne Kirstine Andersen was born on October 7, 1862, in Balslev Parish, Denmark. She grew up on a farm. She became interested in the women's movement while studying at the Vældegarrd Women's School. There, she heard a talk by Astrid Stampe, which inspired her.
After working as a teacher for several years, Johanne married farmer Anders Jensen Andersen in 1897. She then returned to her farm in Balslev. Her husband supported her desire to help her local community. She opened an orphanage, which is a home for children without parents. She also served on the school commission, helping with local schools, and was active in the farmers' association.
Fighting for Women's Rights
In 1908, Johanne Andersen helped create the Balslev-Ejby branch of the Danish Women's Society. As the leader of this group, she strongly supported women's suffrage. This means she fought for women to have the right to vote. She also encouraged women to take part in local elections in 1909.
From 1910, Johanne became a member of the main board of the Danish Women's Society. She served as the deputy chairman from 1919 until she retired in 1922. She worked hard to make sure women's voices were heard, especially those from rural areas.
Her Political Journey
After women in Denmark gained the right to vote in 1915, Johanne Andersen became more involved in politics. She joined the Venstre party, a political group in Denmark. In 1918, she ran in the national elections, hoping to become a member of the Folketing, which is the main parliament in Denmark. Although she was not elected to the Folketing, her efforts showed her dedication to public service and women's involvement in society.
Johanne Andersen passed away at her home in Balslev on October 10, 1925.
