Annie Besant

Born in London on October 1, 1847, Annie Besant became known first as a bold public campaigner in Britain. She wrote and lectured on secularism, workers' rights, women's rights, and social reform, building a reputation as an unusually gifted orator who was never afraid of controversy.

Later, her interests turned toward Theosophy, and she became one of its best-known interpreters and leaders. She wrote widely, traveled extensively, and in 1907 became president of the Theosophical Society, a role she held for the rest of her life.

Besant is also remembered for her deep involvement in India, where she supported national education and the cause of self-rule. In 1917 she became the first woman to serve as president of the Indian National Congress. She died on September 20, 1933, leaving behind a body of work and a public life that crossed reform, religion, and anti-colonial politics.