Intimate States: Gender, Sexuality and Governance in Modern Us History

This book explores the relationship between state power and intimate experiences in the United States from the Civil War to the present, arguing that "intimate governance" should be central to our understanding of modern American history. The state has control over our personal experiences and has shaped contemporary government in profound ways, making it largely indistinguishable from society itself.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 360 pages
Publication date: 06 September 2021
Publisher: The University of Chicago Press

The last few decades have witnessed a remarkable surge in historical scholarship that delves into the intricate dynamics of state power and broadens our understanding of governmental authority and the ways in which we encounter it. Simultaneously, studies of the history of intimate life, encompassing marriage, sexuality, child-rearing, and family, have flourished. However, these two literatures have not been thoroughly intertwined in a sustained manner. This book, meticulously edited and introduced by three esteemed American historians, seeks to bridge this gap by presenting powerful analyses of the relationship between state power and intimate experiences in the United States from the Civil War to the present.

The fourteen essays included in Intimate States make a compelling argument that "intimate governance," the intertwining of private daily experiences with the machinery of the state, should be at the forefront of our understanding of modern American history. The authors and editors contend that the state has exerted control over our personal experiences in ways that are often imperceptible to us, shaping contemporary government in profound ways and embedding its power deeply into the fabric of daily social life. It has become nearly impossible to distinguish the state from society itself.

Intimate States presents a persuasive case that the state is ever-present, even in our most private moments. It sheds light on the ways in which government policies, laws, and regulations have impacted the intimate aspects of our lives, from reproductive rights to family dynamics. The book also explores the ways in which individuals have resisted and challenged state power, advocating for greater autonomy and personal freedom.

By examining the intersection of state power and intimate experiences, Intimate States offers a fresh perspective on American history that challenges traditional narratives and sheds light on the complex and often hidden relationships between the government and the individual. It is a valuable contribution to the field of history and provides insights into the ongoing struggles for social justice and human rights.

Weight: 532g
Dimension: 151 x 228 x 22 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780226794754