Charlotte Despard

Charlotte Despard

Charlotte Despard, suffragette

Charlotte Despard (née French; 15 June 1844 – 10 November 1939) was a prominent British-Irish suffragist, socialist, and novelist. She was a leading figure in the women's suffrage movement and an advocate for social reform, known for her passionate activism and commitment to various causes throughout her life.

Early Life

Charlotte Despard was born in Rathbone Place, London, into a wealthy family. Her father, John Tracy William French, was a Royal Navy officer, and her mother, Margaret Eccles, came from a family with strong Irish connections. Charlotte was the sister of John French, 1st Earl of Ypres, a notable military leader.

Marriage and Personal Life

In 1870, Charlotte married Maximilian Carden Despard, a wealthy Anglo-Irish businessman. The couple lived in Surrey, where Charlotte began her literary career, writing novels that often explored themes of social justice and women's rights. After her husband's death in 1890, Charlotte became increasingly involved in social and political activism.

Activism and Suffrage Movement

Charlotte Despard with fellow suffragettes

Despard's activism began in earnest after her husband's death. She joined the Social Democratic Federation and later the Independent Labour Party. Her commitment to women's suffrage led her to become a member of the National Union of Women's Suffrage Societies (NUWSS). However, she soon became frustrated with the NUWSS's moderate approach and joined the more militant Women's Social and Political Union (WSPU) led by Emmeline Pankhurst.

In 1907, Despard co-founded the Women's Freedom League (WFL) with Teresa Billington-Greig and others, advocating for non-violent protest and civil disobedience. She was known for her charismatic speeches and tireless campaigning, often leading marches and demonstrations.

Social Reform and Later Life

Despard's activism extended beyond women's suffrage. She was deeply involved in social reform, focusing on issues such as poverty, housing, and workers' rights. She was a vocal critic of British imperialism and supported Irish independence, aligning herself with the Sinn Féin movement.

Tree planted by Charlotte Despard

In her later years, Despard moved to Dublin, where she continued her activism. She was involved in the Irish Women's Franchise League and supported the Irish Republican Army during the Irish War of Independence.

Legacy

Charlotte Despard's legacy is marked by her unwavering commitment to social justice and equality. She is remembered as a pioneering figure in the suffrage movement and a champion of the underprivileged. Her work laid the foundation for future generations of activists.

Charlotte Despard leading a procession

Commemoration

Despard's contributions have been commemorated in various ways. A tree planted by her in Battersea Park stands as a testament to her environmental and social activism. Her name is also inscribed on the Millicent Fawcett statue in Parliament Square, London, honoring her role in the fight for women's suffrage.

Plaque commemorating Charlotte Despard

Related Pages

• Women's suffrage in the United Kingdom
• Women's Social and Political Union
• Women's Freedom League
• Irish War of Independence