Who Is Hannie Schaft? Age, Biography and Wiki
Born on September 16, 1920, Hannie Schaft, also known as "the Girl with the Red Hair," emerged as one of the most iconic figures in the Dutch resistance during World War II. Her bravery and dedication to fighting against the Nazi regime made her a symbol of resistance and courage. As of 2025, Schaft would have celebrated her 105th birthday had she survived, further solidifying her legacy in the annals of history.
Her early life was rooted in Haarlem, Netherlands, where she developed a strong sense of justice and responsibility. After the war began, she became deeply involved in the resistance efforts, ultimately leading to her capture and tragic execution in 1945.
| Occupation | Other |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | September 16, 1920 |
| Age | 24 Years |
| Birth Place | Haarlem, Netherlands |
| Horoscope | Virgo |
| Country | Netherlands |
| Date of death | 17 April, 1945 |
| Died Place | Bloemendaal, Reichskommissariat Niederlande |
Popularity
Hannie Schaft's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
Although specific details about Hannie Schaft's physical measurements are scarce, she was known for her striking appearance, notably her red hair which earned her a nickname. She carried herself with a determined and confident demeanor, traits that contributed to her powerful presence in the resistance movement.
- Height: Approximately 5'5" (165 cm)
- Weight: Estimated 120 lbs (54 kg)
- Measurements: Not specifically documented, but her athletic and robust build spoke to her active lifestyle during her years of resistance.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
Information about Hannie Schaft's personal relationships during her youth remains limited, primarily due to the historical context of her life being overshadowed by the war. It is known that she was close to her family, who supported her involvement in the resistance. However, her commitment to the cause often took precedence over personal relationships, and no records confirm any significant romantic partner or marriage during her lifetime.
Her mother, Aafje Talea Schaft (born Vrijer) was a Mennonite and her father, Pieter Schaft, a teacher, was attached to the Social Democratic Workers' Party. The two were very protective of Schaft because of the death due to diphtheria of her older sister Anna in 1927.
Net Worth and Salary
Considering the era in which she lived and the nature of her actions, Hannie Schaft's net worth cannot be precisely calculated. However, it is clear that her impact on history has far outweighed any financial measure. Today, her legacy is commemorated through literature, films, and memorials rather than material wealth. Schaft's bravery ensures her lasting place in history, far surpassing traditional measures of success or earnings.
Career, Business and Investments
Hannie Schaft’s career was solely defined by her role in the Dutch resistance movement during World War II. Her contributions included sabotaging German operations, distributing anti-Nazi propaganda, and helping fellow resistance fighters. Tragically, her life was cut short at the age of 24, but her legacy continues to inspire future generations.
She did not engage in conventional business or investments; instead, she dedicated her life to fighting for freedom and justice in a time of great oppression, displaying unmatched courage in a service to her country.
Social Network
During the 1940s, social networks as we know them did not exist; however, Hannie Schaft was part of an extensive underground network of resistance fighters. This group consisted of brave individuals, all committed to bringing down the oppressive Nazi regime. Their collaboration exemplifies the strength of solidarity in times of adversity.
In the present day, Hannie Schaft's story has made its way into various social discussions, particularly on platforms dedicated to history, feminism, and civil rights. Her legacy is celebrated annually, drawing attention on social media and through various forms of media, ensuring her memory lives on.
She was eventually arrested at a military checkpoint in Haarlem on 21 March 1945 while distributing the illegal communist newspaper de Waarheid ('The Truth'), which was a cover story. She was transporting secret documentation for the Resistance. She worked closely with Anna A.C. Wijnhoff. She was brought to a prison in Amsterdam.
After much interrogation, torture, and solitary confinement, Schaft was identified by the roots of her red hair by her former colleague Anna Wijnhoff. Schaft admitted her Resistance activities, but there is no evidence that she gave the Nazis information about her fellow fighters.
Education
Hannie Schaft attended school in Haarlem, where she was noted for her intelligence and strong will. Her education, combined with her early awareness of social injustices, shaped her views and ultimately influenced her decision to become a resistance fighter. While she did not pursue higher educational opportunities due to the war, her commitment to learning and growth remained strong throughout her brief life.
Schaft's resistance work started with small acts. First, she would steal ID cards for Jewish residents (including her friends). Upon leaving university, she joined the Raad van Verzet ('Council of Resistance'), a resistance movement that had close ties to the Communist Party of the Netherlands.
There she met two sisters, Truus and Freddie Oversteegen, who became her close friends and would survive the war. Rather than act as a courier, Schaft wanted to work with weapons. She was responsible for sabotaging and assassinating various targets. She carried out attacks on Germans, Dutch Nazis, collaborators and traitors.
She learned to speak German fluently and became involved with German soldiers. Before facing her targets, Schaft put on makeup — including lipstick and mascara — and styled her hair. In one of the few direct quotations that have been attributed to Schaft, she explained to Truus Oversteegen: “I’ll die clean and beautiful.”
