Emily Hahn

Emily Hahn, born on January fourteenth, nineteen oh five, was a remarkable American journalist and writer whose contributions to literature and journalism have often been overlooked. Recognized as an early feminist, she was dubbed 'a forgotten American literary treasure' by The New Yorker magazine. Over her prolific career, she authored more than fifty books and penned over two hundred articles and short stories, leaving an indelible mark on the literary world.

Hahn's novels in the twentieth century played a pivotal role in bridging the cultural gap between the West and regions such as Asia and Africa. Her extensive travels, fueled by a deep love for animals and adventure, significantly influenced her writing. She made history as the first woman to earn a degree in Mining Engineering from the University of Wisconsin–Madison, showcasing her pioneering spirit in a male-dominated field.

In the mid-1920s, after spending time in Florence and London, Hahn embarked on a journey to the Belgian Congo, where she hiked across Central Africa during the 1930s. Her travels continued as she moved to Shanghai in nineteen thirty-five, where she taught English for three years. During her time in Shanghai, she became acquainted with prominent figures, including The Soong Sisters and the Chinese poet Shao Xunmei, further enriching her experiences and perspectives.