Marie Stopes

Date of Birth: October 15, 1880

Zodiac Sign: Libra

Date of Death: October 2, 1958

Biography

Marie Stopes was a pioneering British author, scientist, and advocate for women’s rights, particularly in the realm of reproductive health. Born in Edinburgh, Scotland, she was one of the most influential figures in the early 20th century in advocating for birth control and women’s sexual health. She was educated at the University of London and the University of Munich, where she earned her doctorate in paleobotany, making her one of the first women to receive a Ph.D. in science. Stopes’ most famous work, “Married Love,” published in 1918, revolutionized public perceptions of marital relationships and sexual health. Her advocacy extended beyond writing; she established the first birth control clinic in Britain in 1921. Despite facing significant opposition from social, religious, and medical institutions, Stopes remained steadfast in her mission to educate women about their bodies and reproductive choices. She continued her work until her death in 1958, leaving behind a legacy that transformed women’s healthcare and reproductive rights.

5 Interesting Facts about Marie Stopes

1. Marie Stopes’ book “Married Love” was banned in the United States for its frank discussion of sexual health and birth control.

2. She was a trailblazer in paleobotany, specializing in the study of fossil plants, and was the first female academic at the University of Manchester.

3. Stopes founded the first birth control clinic in Britain, the Mothers’ Clinic for Birth Control in London, in 1921.

4. She was also a playwright and poet, albeit less known for these pursuits compared to her scientific and advocacy work.

5. Despite her contributions to reproductive rights, Stopes held controversial views on eugenics, which have marred her legacy.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Marie Stopes

1. “The discontent that lies in the human heart is a great spur to progress.”

2. “Love and intimacy are at the core of the human experience.”

3. “A woman’s body belongs to herself alone. It is her own property.”

4. “Knowledge is the antidote to fear.”

5. “The joy of motherhood comes in moments. There will be hard times and frustrating times. But amid the challenges, there are shining moments of joy and satisfaction.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Marie Stopes’ net worth at the peak of her career is not well documented in financial terms, but her influence and the revenue from her publications and clinics were considerable.

Children

Marie Stopes had one child, a son named Harry Stopes-Roe, who was born in 1924. Harry went on to become a philosopher and was active in the field of humanism.