The purpose of this study is to examine in what way Ellen Key´s view of children is described in one of her works at the turn of the century in Sweden, against the background of her stance on social issues. The analysis took a hermeneutic approach, analyzing her essay collection The Century of the Child Part I in its contemporary context. The study found that her views on children were also largely influenced by her philosophy of life, where socio-political issues interacted with human rights, which was radical in its time. In conclusion, the document can be seen to reflect her standpoint as being radical and simultaneously characterized by a rights-based view of humanity, where children are also seen as individuals. This showcases not only the changing character of the right to be seen as human but also our perception of ourselves and the responsibilities that comes with it.