Women in Leadership: Breaking Barriers Over Time. Catalina de Erauso: The Lieutenant Nun

By Iqra Solanki
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    Birth and Early Life - (San Sebastián, Spain)

    Catalina de Erauso was born into a noble Basque family in 1592. Her father was a military officer, and at four years old, she was sent to a convent to be raised as a nun. However, Catalina was strong-willed and disliked the restrictive life of the convent. She longed for adventure and freedom beyond the convent walls.
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    Death and Legacy (1650 – Mexico)

    Catalina de Erauso is believed to have died around 1650 in Mexico. Her life became legendary, inspiring discussions about gender, identity, and defying societal expectations. Today, she is remembered as a trailblazing leader who lived by her own rules.
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    Escape from the Convent (1600 – Spain)

    At around 15 years old, Catalina decided to escape. She cut her hair, stole male clothing, and left the convent under the cover of darkness. Disguising herself as a man, she took on different names and started working in various towns across Spain. She served as a page to a nobleman, a shop assistant, and a servant, constantly changing identities to avoid detection.
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    Voyage to the Americas (1603 – Seville to Peru)

    After three years of wandering, Catalina traveled to Seville, Spain’s major port city, and boarded a ship to the Americas. Spanish colonies in South America were expanding, and many young men were joining expeditions in search of wealth and adventure. Still disguised as a man, Catalina arrived in Peru and began working as an assistant to a wealthy merchant. However, after a dispute, she fled and took on yet another new identity.
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    Joining the Spanish Army (1610 – Chile)

    Seeking more stability, Catalina enlisted in the Spanish army under the name Alonso Díaz Ramírez de Guzmán. Women were not allowed to serve in the military, making her disguise essential. She was sent to Chile to fight against the Mapuche people, the indigenous resistance opposing Spanish colonization. Her skills in combat, strategic thinking, and fearless nature quickly earned her the respect of fellow soldiers.
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    Military Success and Life as a Fugitive (1615–1620 – Chile & Peru)

    Catalina quickly rose through the ranks and was promoted to lieutenant, a remarkable achievement for someone living under a false identity. She became known for her courage in battle and leadership skills. However, her hot temper led to frequent duels and violent disputes. Catalina lived as a fugitive, moving across Peru, Bolivia, and Ecuador. She remained fearless, using her wit and quick thinking to survive.
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    Identity Revealed (1623 – Peru)

    After being wounded in battle, Catalina was taken to a hospital, where a priest recognized her true identity. Instead of punishment, her story fascinated Spanish officials. She was sent back to Spain to explain herself before the king
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    Papal Permission (1625 – Rome, Italy)

    In Spain, Catalina’s story gained widespread attention. She even met Pope Urban VIII, who, impressed by her bravery, granted her special permission to continue dressing as a man, an extraordinary decision at the time.
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    Later Years and Autobiography (1626–1635 – Spain & Mexico)

    After her return, Catalina moved to Mexico, where she became a merchant and mule trader. She dictated her autobiography, The Memoirs of Catalina de Erauso, which detailed her incredible journey as a woman living as a man. The book became an important historical document.