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Eleanor Florence Rathbone

(1872-1946), Social reformer

Sitter in 4 portraits
Social reformer. The daughter of a reforming Liberal MP, instrumental in establishing training for nurses, Rathbone was an early graduate of Somerville College, Oxford (1896), who became active in the women's suffrage movement. She was an Independent MP (1929-46), representing the combined universities until this seat was abolished, and was a vehement opponent of appeasement with Germany. Her report, The Disinherited Family (1924), on the economic status of the family, and The Case for Family Allowances (1940), resulted in the introduction of Family Allowances in 1945. An advocate for women's rights throughout the Commonwealth, particularly in India, Rathbone worked unstintingly for refugees.

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Eleanor Florence Rathbone, by Sir James Gunn - NPG 4133

Eleanor Florence Rathbone

by Sir James Gunn
oil on canvas, 1933
On display in Room 19 on Floor 2 at the National Portrait Gallery
NPG 4133

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Eleanor Florence Rathbone

by Elliott & Fry
half-plate negative
NPG x81845

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