Men in the American Women's Rights Movement, 1830-1890: Cumbersome Allies

This book explores the diverse and often contradictory advocacy of male activists in American feminism from the 1830s to the late 19th century,using archival work on personal papers and public sources. It focuses on nine men who influenced debates within and outside the movement,marriages,friendships,and the evolution of masculinity. It re-evaluates the historical evolution of feminisms and identity politics before and after the Civil War.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 204 pages
Publication date: 30 May 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This book delves into the captivating stories of male activists who played pivotal roles in American feminism from the 1830s to the late 19th century. By meticulously examining archival materials, including personal papers and public sources, the author sheds light on the diverse and often contradictory advocacy of women's rights by these men. While recognizing their significance as important allies in the fight for gender equality, the book also acknowledges the challenges and complexities associated with their involvement.

The book focuses on a select group of nine men, each with their unique contributions to the feminist movement. These men include William Lloyd Garrison, Wendell Phillips, James Mott, Frederick Douglass, Henry B. Blackwell, Stephen S. Foster, Henry Ward Beecher, Robert Purvis, and Thomas Wentworth Higginson. Through their interactions, the book demonstrates how their ideas and actions influenced debates within and outside the movement, shaping marriages, friendships, and the evolving concept of masculinity throughout the 19th century.

Re-evaluating the historical evolution of feminisms as movements for and by women, as well as the meanings of identity politics before and after the Civil War, this book offers a crucial perspective on the history of both American feminisms and American politics and society. It challenges traditional narratives and sheds light on the complex interplay between gender, race, and class in shaping the feminist movement.

This book would be of immense interest to scholars in the fields of gender history, womens history, gender studies, and modern American history. It provides valuable insights into the experiences of male activists and their contributions to the feminist movement, challenging our understanding of historical progress and the ongoing struggle for gender equality.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367630096