Autobiography of annie besant indian freedom

Annie Besant (1847-1933)  – political reformer, women’s rights activist, theosophist and Indian nationalist.

“An imperious necessity forces me to speak the truth, as I see it, whether the speech please or displease, whether it bring praise or blame.

That one loyalty to Truth I must keep stainless, whatever friendships fail me or human ties be broken.”

– Annie Besant, An Autobiography Chapter XIV.

Annie Besant was born 1 October 1847 in Clapham London to parents of Irish roots.

After the early death of her father in 1852, the family were brought up in relative poverty and Annie was looked after by a friend of the family Ellen Marryat. This enabled Annie to gain a good education and travel around Europe.

In 1867, aged only 19, she married a clergyman Frank Besant, seven years her senior.

Autobiography of annie besant indian freedom

They went to live in Sibsey, Lincolnshire, where Frank was a vicar. However, the marriage soon experienced difficulties. Annie became increasingly radicalised in