Hasna Doreh

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Hasna Doreh
حسناء دوريه
Born1860s
Died
OrganizationDervish State
Political partyDervish movement
SpouseMohammed Abdullah Hassan

Hasna Doreh (Somali: Xasna Dooreeh, Arabic: حسناء دوريه) was an early 20th-century Somali female commander of the Dervish State, a state which frequently engaged in battles against the imperial powers during the Somali campaign. Female Darwiish such as her were referred to as Darwiishaad or Darawiishaad.[1]

Biography[edit]

Doreh was the wife of Mohammed Abdullah Hassan, who assigned her one of the nine divisions of the Dervish army.[2]

In his biography of Muhammad Abdullah Hassan and Hassan's Dervish comrades, the author Ray Beachey compared Doreh to the ancient British Queen Boadicea in her struggle against the Roman Empire.

Doreh's leadership on the battlefield was characterized by her unwavering resolve and fearlessness in the face of adversity. Alongside her husband, Mohammed Abdullah Hassan, she led her division with courage and determination, facing off against the imperial forces that sought to subjugate her people. Her exploits in battle earned her the respect and admiration of her comrades and adversaries alike.

Inspiring Somali Women[edit]

Beyond her military exploits, Hasna Doreh served as a beacon of hope and empowerment for Somali women. In a society where women's roles were often confined to the domestic sphere, Doreh shattered stereotypes and blazed a trail for future generations. Her courage and resilience inspired countless Somali women, including Hawo Tako and others, to actively participate in the struggle for freedom and independence.

Doreh's legacy continues to resonate in Somali society, serving as a reminder of the indomitable spirit and resilience of the Somali people. Her contributions to the cause of freedom and her role in inspiring women to break barriers and strive for equality remain an integral part of Somalia's rich history.

Legacy[edit]

Hasna Doreh's legacy as a fearless female commander continues to inspire generations of Somalis. Her courage, leadership, and unwavering commitment to the cause of freedom serve as a source of inspiration for all who seek to uphold the values of sovereignty and self-determination. In commemorating the life and achievements of Hasna Doreh, Somalis honor not only a remarkable leader but also a symbol of resilience and resistance against oppression. Her story reminds Many Somalis of the pivotal role that women have played in shaping the course of history and serves as a testament to the power of courage in the face of colonial oppression.

Notes[edit]

  1. ^ Hoehne, Markus (2011). Political Orientations and Repertoires of Identification: State and Identity Formation in Northern Somalia.
  2. ^ Beachey, p.76

References[edit]