Margaret Cousins

Margaret E. Cousins, 1932

Margaret Cousins (1878–1954) was an Irish-Indian suffragist, theosophist, and a prominent figure in the women's rights movement in both Ireland and India. She played a significant role in advocating for women's suffrage and was instrumental in the establishment of several key organizations dedicated to women's rights.

Early Life

Margaret Cousins was born on November 7, 1878, in Boyle, County Roscommon, Ireland. She was educated at the Royal University of Ireland, where she developed a keen interest in social issues and women's rights.

Activism in Ireland

In Ireland, Cousins was a founding member of the Irish Women's Franchise League (IWFL) in 1908, alongside Hanna Sheehy-Skeffington. The IWFL was dedicated to securing the right to vote for women and was known for its militant tactics. Cousins was also involved in the Irish Women's Suffrage and Local Government Association.

Move to India

In 1915, Margaret Cousins moved to India with her husband, James Cousins, who was a poet and writer. In India, she continued her activism and became deeply involved in the Indian women's movement. She was a co-founder of the Women's Indian Association (WIA) in 1917, which aimed to promote women's education, social reform, and political rights.

Contributions in India

Margaret Cousins played a crucial role in the establishment of the All India Women's Conference (AIWC) in 1927, which became one of the most influential women's organizations in India. She also worked closely with prominent Indian leaders such as Sarojini Naidu and Mahatma Gandhi.

Legacy

Margaret Cousins' efforts significantly contributed to the advancement of women's rights in both Ireland and India. She is remembered as a pioneering feminist and a dedicated advocate for social justice.

Death

Margaret Cousins passed away on March 11, 1954, in Adyar, Chennai, India.

See Also

• Women's suffrage
• Irish Women's Franchise League
• Women's Indian Association
• All India Women's Conference
• Sarojini Naidu
• Mahatma Gandhi