Women, Horse Sports and Liberation: Equestrianism and Britain from the 18th to the 20th Centuries

This book explores British women's involvement in equestrianism from the 18th to the 20th centuries, highlighting how it transcended limitations of class and gender and reshaped ideals of race and reinforced imperial ideology. It questions what "emancipation" meant in practice to women in Britain.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 320 pages
Publication date: 09 January 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This captivating book delves into the profound and multifaceted involvement of British women in equestrianism across the eighteenth to twentieth centuries, shedding light on the remarkable transformations that occurred in gender, class, sport, and national identity within Britain and its Empire. It argues that women's participation in horse sports transcended the boundaries of class and gender in Britain, showcasing a democratic ethos that empowered individuals from diverse backgrounds, ranging from chimney sweeps to courtesans, to excel in riding and hunting. Moreover, women's involvement in equestrianism played a significant role in shaping ideals of race and reinforcing imperial ideology during the height of the British Empire. British women, in a groundbreaking move, abandoned the traditional sidesaddle and embraced the astride position, achieving complete equality on horseback. However, their pursuit of further emancipation in the form of political rights remained elusive. This intriguing paradox highlights the profound impact of sport on women's lives in the twentieth century, challenging the notion of "emancipation" and raising important questions about the practical experiences of women in Britain throughout the eighteenth to twentieth centuries.

This captivating work appeals to scholars and enthusiasts alike in the fields of sports history, women's history, British history, imperial history, and the broader social, gendered, and political histories of the nineteenth and twentieth centuries. It also holds a special place for equestrian enthusiasts, offering a deep appreciation for the role of women in shaping the world of horse sports and their enduring contributions to the sport's rich tapestry.

In conclusion, this book is a groundbreaking exploration of British women's equestrianism, providing a rich and detailed account of their involvement in horse sports and the profound impact it had on gender, class, sport, and national identity. It is a must-read for anyone interested in the history of women, sports, and the British Empire, and a testament to the power of sport to shape society and challenge societal norms.

Weight: 603g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367769574