Fatma Naftal

Pioneering Egyptian nationalist poet and activist who used art to inspire anti-colonial movements

Biography

Fatma Naftal (1908–1948) was a trailblazing Egyptian poet and political activist whose work became a cornerstone of the Egyptian nationalist movement. Born in Cairo to a working-class family, she began writing poetry at age 12 that openly criticized British colonial rule. Her 1927 poem 'The Nile's Cry' became an anthem for student protests, earning her a three-month prison sentence at age 19.

Naftal co-founded the Egyptian National Youth League in 1933, organizing strikes and writing propaganda that combined classical Arabic poetry with revolutionary messages. Her 1938 collection 'Songs of the Oppressed' sold 50,000 copies despite government bans, with proceeds funding medical supplies for wounded protesters.

Legacy

Though overshadowed by male leaders like Nasser, Naftal's work remains crucial to understanding 20th century Arab feminism. The British Museum now holds her handwritten manuscripts, and Cairo's Al-Azhar University hosts an annual poetry competition in her name. Recent scholarship like 'Voices of the Nile' (2019) has reignited interest in her contributions to decolonization movements.