Anna Kingsford

English physician, spiritualist, and advocate for women's rights and vegetarianism

Anna Bonus Kingsford (16 September 1846 – 22 February 1888) was an English physician, spiritualist, and advocate for women's rights and vegetarianism. She was one of the first women to obtain a degree in medicine in the United Kingdom and was a prominent figure in the anti-vivisection movement. Her work and beliefs were influential in the late 19th century, particularly in the areas of spiritualism and theosophy.

Early life and education

Anna Bonus was born in Stratford, Essex, England, into a prosperous family. From a young age, she exhibited a keen interest in literature and spirituality. Her education was largely self-directed, as was common for women of her social standing during the Victorian era. She married Algernon Godfrey Kingsford in 1867, and the couple had one daughter.

Medical career

Anna Kingsford

Kingsford's interest in medicine was sparked by her desire to find alternatives to the vivisection practices prevalent in medical research at the time. She enrolled at the University of Paris, as women were not yet admitted to medical schools in England. In 1880, she graduated with a degree in medicine, having completed her thesis on the benefits of vegetarianism, titled "The Perfect Way in Diet."

Advocacy and beliefs

Kingsford was a staunch advocate for vegetarianism, believing it to be a moral and healthful choice. Her work "The Perfect Way in Diet" outlined her arguments against the consumption of meat and the ethical treatment of animals. She was also deeply involved in the anti-vivisection movement, campaigning against the use of animals in scientific experiments.

Spiritualism and theosophy

Kingsford's spiritual beliefs were a significant aspect of her life and work. She was involved in the Theosophical Society and collaborated with Edward Maitland, a fellow spiritualist and writer. Together, they explored mysticism and esoteric Christianity, producing works that combined spiritual insights with philosophical discourse.

Edward Maitland

Later life and legacy

In her later years, Kingsford's health declined, partly due to the strain of her work and her commitment to her causes. She continued to write and lecture on spiritual and ethical topics until her death in 1888. Her grave is located in Brighton, England, and remains a site of interest for those who study her life and contributions.

Anna Kingsford's grave

Related pages

• Vegetarianism
• Anti-vivisection
• Theosophy
• Women's rights