Annie Wood Besant
- Born:
- 1 October 1847, London, England
- Died:
- 20 September 1933, Adyar, Madras, British India
- Nationality:
- British
- Profession(s):
- Theosophist, Women's Rights Activist, Writer, Orator, Educationist, Political Reformer, Advocate for Indian Self-Rule
Early Life and Education
- Born Annie Wood to William Wood and Emily Roche Morris.
- Received a private education due to her father's connections.
- Married Reverend Frank Besant in 1867; separated in 1873.
Career and Major Achievements
- Joined the National Secular Society and became a prominent speaker and writer for secularist causes.
- Became a Fabian Socialist, advocating for social reform and workers' rights.
- Joined the Theosophical Society in 1889 after being commissioned to review Helena Blavatsky's "The Secret Doctrine."
- Elected President of the Theosophical Society in 1907, a position she held until her death.
- Established the Central Hindu College (later Banaras Hindu University) in 1898.
- Founded the Home Rule League in India in 1916 to advocate for Indian self-government.
- Served as President of the Indian National Congress in 1917.
- Worked extensively to promote education, social reform, and Indian culture.
Notable Works
- An Autobiography
- The Ancient Wisdom
- A Study in Consciousness
- The Doctrine of the Heart
- Numerous pamphlets and articles on Theosophy, social reform, and Indian politics.
Legacy and Impact
Annie Besant was a significant figure in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, advocating for a wide range of social and political causes. The life of Annie Besant biography in short reveals her important contribution to the women's rights movement, the spread of Theosophy, and the struggle for Indian independence. Her work in education and social reform left a lasting impact on India and beyond.