Soledad Acosta de Samper (1833–1913) was a pioneering Colombian writer, journalist, and historian, celebrated for her contributions to 19th-century Latin American literature and intellectual culture. Born in Bogotá into a prominent family, she received an exceptional education for a woman of her time, mastering French, English, and Spanish and developing a profound interest in history, literature, and social issues. Her intellectual curiosity was further fueled by her travels through Europe and North America, where she encountered progressive ideas about women’s education and rights.
Acosta de Samper’s literary career was prolific, spanning novels, essays, short stories, and historical works. She addressed themes such as religion, education, and the role of women in society, often advocating for their intellectual and moral development. Her historical writing is particularly noteworthy, as she chronicled the lives of significant figures in Colombia’s independence movement and wrote extensively about the nation’s history from a perspective that included women’s contributions.
As a journalist, Acosta de Samper founded and edited several periodicals, including La Mujer, a journal dedicated to women’s issues. Through this platform, she promoted education as a means for women’s empowerment and critiqued the societal norms that limited their participation in public life. Her work blended a deep Catholic faith with a commitment to progress, positioning her as a moderate yet influential voice in the emerging feminist discourse of her time.
Soledad Acosta de Samper’s legacy lies in her dual role as a writer and advocate for women’s rights. She remains a key figure in the intellectual history of Colombia and Latin America, exemplifying how women of the 19th century used literature and journalism to challenge societal norms and expand opportunities for future generations.