Matilde Montoya

BIOGRAPHY

Matilde Montoya was born in Mexico City on 14 March of 1859. Her parents were Soledad Lafragua and Jose Maria Montoya. Despite having 2 brothers, she was raised as an only child. His brother was raised by his grandmother and his sister died when she was young. His father forbade his mother to leave the house. Therefore, Matilde's mother dedicated herself exclusively to her upbringing. Since she was a child she was very interested in her studies, thanks to her mother's support and lessons. She finished her primary education at 12 years old, and she was too young to start higher education. She finished her preparation to present the official exam for elementary school teacher, which she approved without difficulty, but her age, 13 years old, prevented her from reaching the required level again.

First of all she was working as a midwife. Then she entered to the National Medical School of Mexico in 1882. She became one of the first women to attend and graduated in medical school, eventually earning her doctorate in 1887. Although many people were disappointed about she to study, Matilde is considered the first mexican woman to be a doctor. Matilde died in Mexico City on 26 January of 1939.

LEGACY:

Matilde was a important leader and member of many women's organizations. She participated in a prominent time period for the social movement of feminism in Mexico. Thanks to her, women started to have more rights and more opportunities for education and occupations.