Lüders, Marie-Elizabeth (1888–1966)

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Lüders, Marie-Elizabeth (1888–1966)

German politician and feminist. Name variations: Marie-Elisabeth Luders or Lueders. Born 1888 in Berlin, Germany; died 1966; dau. of a civil servant.

Became one of 1st women to be awarded doctorate in political science and economics (1912); founded National Women's Service with Gertrud Bäumer and others; headed war office dealing with women's labor and later joined Democratic Party (1919); became member of National Assembly and then Reichstag; campaigned against Nazi policy and was arrested by Gestapo (1937); went into exile and upon return became member of senate (1947); was senior member of Bundestag (1953) and made honorary president of Federal Democratic Party (1957).