Profile of the Day: Eva Ekeblad

Eva Ekeblad

On this day in 1724, Swedish aristocrat and scientist Eva Ekeblad was born. She was known for discovering how to make flour and alcohol from potatoes, which significantly reduce famine for years to come.

She was born Eva De la Gardie on July 10, 1724 to Magnus Julius De la Gardie, a statesman, and Hedvig Catharina Lilje, who was known for hosting political salons.

When potatoes were first introduced into Sweden in 1658, they were only found in the greenhouses of the aristocracy. After hearing that the Germans had discovered how to make alcohol from potatoes, Ekeblad began experimenting with the vegetable. She not only discovered how to make alcohol from potatoes, but also flour. Now that there was an alternative means to create liquor, the increased supplies of wheat, rye, and barley would be available to make bread to feed the hungry. Her findings significantly help decrease famines in the country and pave the way for potatoes to become a staple food in Sweden.

In 1746, she sent her findings to the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences. Two years later, she became the first woman to be admitted to the Academy.

How are you related to Eva Ekeblad? Explore her family tree on Geni and share your connection to the Swedish pioneer.
 

View Eva Ekeblad’s Geni Profile

Image: Wikimedia Commons