Clorinda_Matto

Peruvian writer and social reformer who exposed indigenous exploitation through her landmark novel <i>Aves sin Nido</i>

Clorinda Matto de Turner (1852-1909) was a visionary Peruvian author and activist whose 1889 novel Aves sin Nido (Birds Without a Nest) became a catalyst for social reform. Born to a wealthy family in Cusco, she witnessed the injustices faced by indigenous populations during Peru's rubber boom. Her novel exposed the exploitation of native communities through a compelling narrative that shocked the nation.

Matto's work led to the creation of the Comisión de la Enseñanza Indígena (Indigenous Education Commission) in 1895. She also founded the Asociación Protectora de la Infancia to protect orphaned children, and advocated for women's suffrage long before it was achieved in Peru. Her 1900 essay La Mujer en el Porvenir argued for gender equality in education and politics.

Though suppressed during her lifetime, her writings were later recognized as foundational texts in Latin American literature. The National Library of Peru maintains a dedicated archive of her manuscripts. Her legacy endures through the Clorinda Matto Prize for social justice literature and the Cusco Human Rights Museum.

Discover her works at Latin American Digital Archive or explore her influence on modern Peruvian feminism through Activist Heritage.