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Sophie Von HatzfeldtGerman socialist
Date of Birth: 10.08.1805
Country:  Germany |
Content:
- Sophie von Hatzfeldt
- Divorce and Relationship with Ferdinand Lassalle
- Political Activism
- Later Years
- Family
Sophie von Hatzfeldt
Early Life and MarriageSophie von Hatzfeldt was born into the noble Hatzfeldt family in Silesia. In 1822, she was forced to marry her distant relative, Count Edmund von Hatzfeldt-Wildenburg-Weißweiler, as part of a family agreement. Edmund was an abusive husband, and despite the birth of their son Paul in 1831, he continued his excessive lifestyle.
Divorce and Relationship with Ferdinand Lassalle
In 1848, Sophie began a lifelong relationship with Ferdinand Lassalle, a prominent labor leader. With his support, she filed for divorce in 1846, a process that lasted six years. After her divorce in 1851, she lived with Lassalle until his death in 1864.
Political Activism
Sophie became known as the "Red Countess" for her involvement in the March Revolution and her support of Lassalle's socialist ideas. She co-founded the General German Workers' Union with him and continued to advocate for workers' rights after his death.
Later Years
After Lassalle's death, Sophie considered herself his spiritual heir and worked to preserve his legacy. She published his writings and remained active in the labor movement, despite facing opposition from many male members. In 1867, she founded the Lassallean General German Workers' Union.
Family
Sophie and Edmund von Hatzfeldt-Wildenburg had three children: Alfred, Melania, and Paul. Her younger sister, Clara, married August Ludwig von Nosttitz. After reconciling with her family, Sophie lived in several family estates until her death.
