#feminist philosophy

Mary Wollstonecraft was born on April 27, 1759.

Wollstonecraft is often cited as the mother of what we today call feminism. Her book A Vindication of the Rights of Woman is a foundational text in early feminist philosophy.

In addition to being one of the mothers of modern feminism, Wollstonecraft was also the mother of the renowned writer Mary Shelley. Sadly, Wollstonecraft would die just ten days after giving birth to young Mary, “leaving behind the foundation for the next two centuries of humanity’s model of gender equality.” Mary Shelley would come to know her mother through her writings, even learning to read partly by tracing the letters on Wollstonecraft’s gravestone.

Wollstonecraft would leave behind an unfinished manuscript where she wrote these words: “Always appear what you are, and you will not pass through existence without enjoying its genuine blessings, love and respect.”