Manuela Sáenz y Aizpuru

Doña Manuela Sáenz y Aizpuru was an Ecuadorian revolutionary heroine of South America who supported the cause by gathering information, distributing leaflets, and protesting for women’s rights. Manuela received the Order of the Sun honoring her services in the revolution.

She married a wealthy English merchant in 1817 and became a socialite in Peru. She became active in support of revolutionary efforts. Leaving her husband in 1822, she began an eight-year collaboration and intimate relationship with Simón Bolívar that lasted until his death. After she prevented an assassination attempt against him and facilitated his escape, Bolívar began to call her “Libertadora del libertador.” Her role within the revolution was overlooked until the late twentieth century. She is recognized as a feminist symbol of the 19th century wars of independence.

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