Clara Collet, 1860-1948

This biography details the life of Clara Collet, an influential economist and advocate for women's employment, showcasing her remarkable contributions and relationships.

This biography presents an in-depth exploration of Clara Collet's life, a pioneering economist and statistician who played a crucial role in advocating for women's employment. The narrative draws from Collet's personal diaries, offering insights into her early years as a female university graduate in 1880 and her subsequent career as a teacher. During a time when girls had limited access to secondary education, Collet campaigned tirelessly to improve educational opportunities, highlighting her commitment to women's rights and empowerment.

Collet's significant contributions extend beyond education; she was a prominent figure in the Royal Commission on Labour, where she worked to elevate the status of working-class women. Her connections with influential figures such as Karl Marx, particularly his daughter Eleanor, and social reformers like Beatrice Webb, enriched her perspective and activism. These relationships are explored in detail, showcasing how they shaped her views and efforts in economic and social reform.

The book also emphasizes Collet's enduring friendships with notable literary and political figures, including George Gissing, whose work was influenced by her insights. By chronicling her collaborations with prominent leaders like Lloyd George, Ramsay MacDonald, and Winston Churchill, this biography not only celebrates Collet's achievements but also situates her within the broader context of social change in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Clara Collet, 1860-1948 is a testament to a remarkable woman who left a lasting legacy in the fight for women's rights.