Since the 1830s, a notable shift occurred in Latin America with the emergence of newspapers edited and published by elite women. Argentina pioneered this movement, witnessing the genesis of a groundbreaking proposal led by women from the literate elite. These women challenged the established intellectual and literary field dominated by men, introducing alternative projects that permeated the public space.

As the mid-19th century unfolded, the momentum spread to other corners of Latin America. Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Cuba, and Venezuela experienced the rise of women’s participation in cultural and social spheres. Despite this noteworthy transformation, much of the twentieth-century historiography and literary criticism focused predominantly on analyzing literary texts, critiques, and political debates proposed by men. Notable exceptions, such as Gertrudis Gómez de Avellaneda, Fernán Caballero, Mercedes Cabello de Carbonera, Clorinda Matto de Turner, and Soledad Acosta de Samper, were overshadowed, and many women’s voices remained unheard.

This digital project seeks to address fundamental questions that have long been neglected: Who were the members of the networks formed among Latin American women intellectuals in the 19th century, and what cultural products did they contribute to the public sphere? By doing so, the project aims to disrupt the traditional concept of the Latin American intellectual in the nineteenth century. Women, in addition to playing pivotal roles in nation-building through shaping public opinion, also fulfilled their traditional roles as mothers and wives – a variable often overlooked by historiography and criticism when analyzing the figure of the intellectual.

Join us on this exploration as we uncover the voices and contributions of these remarkable women, reshaping our understanding of 19th-century Latin American intellectual history.

The emergence of Latin American Women Writers

In the 19th century, Latin America saw the emergence of several remarkable women writers who defied societal norms and made enduring contributions to literature. Despite the prevalent gender roles of the time, these writers used their pens as instruments of empowerment, challenging traditional expectations and contributing to the cultural and intellectual landscape of their respective nations.

One such influential figure was Clorinda Matto de Turner (1852–1909) from Peru. Her novel “Aves sin nido” (Birds Without a Nest), published in 1889, tackled social issues such as indigenous rights, racial discrimination, and the oppressive power dynamics in society. Matto de Turner’s work marked a significant departure from the prevailing literary themes of the era, providing a unique perspective on the cultural complexities of Peru.

In Mexico, Gertrudis Gómez de Avellaneda (1814–1873), though born in Cuba, was an essential literary figure. Her notable works include “Sab” (Sabina), published in 1841, which explored the challenges faced by women in a patriarchal society. Avellaneda’s writings were not only influential in literary circles but also contributed to discussions on women’s rights and social reform.

The Argentine writer Juana Manuela Gorriti (1816–1892) played a crucial role in shaping the literary scene of her time. She was not only a prolific author but also a political activist and a key figure in the intellectual circles of 19th-century Argentina. Gorriti’s writings often reflected her concerns about social justice, national identity, and the role of women in society.

Eduarda Mansilla (1834–1892), another Argentine author, made significant contributions to literature with her work “Una excursión a los indios ranqueles” (An Excursion to the Ranquel Indians), published in 1870. This narrative combined elements of travelogue, ethnography, and personal reflection, providing a unique perspective on indigenous cultures in Argentina.

While these women faced various challenges, including limited access to education and societal expectations, their literary endeavors paved the way for future generations of women writers in Latin America. Through their words, they not only documented the social and cultural realities of their time but also contributed to the broader narrative of women’s struggles and achievements in the 19th century.