Women in the Professions, Politics and Philanthropy 1840-1940

About the Book

This book provides a historical analysis of gender and class issues concerning women working in education, health, politics, housing and religion, who were significant figures in opening up many areas of life for women of subsequent generations. It covers a period of social, cultural and political change brought about by increasing urbanisation and industrialisation and by associated developments in agricultural and rural life. Through a series of essays the authors consider the manner in which key issues were socially and politically constructed, together with the specific consequences of these constructions. By dividing the book thematically the philanthropic, professional and political roles adopted by women are highlighted, revealing the development of ideas and responses to issues in ways that are important for gaining a greater understanding and perspective of the period. All are connected by being situated on the margins of history, in the sense that they have been neglected by historians, even within the field of women’s history. Some endeavoured to change their traditional role, others worked in behalf of marginal groups and yet others invented strategies for survival in a male-dominated world. The book’s fundamental premise is that not only are such marginal groups and individuals intrinsically interesting, but that they throw significant light on women’s lives both in the public and private spheres.

About the Author

Anne Digby, Gwen Searle, Caroline Morrell, Gina Burrows, Anne Keene, Helen Sweet, Katherine Bradley and Lesley Wade are social historians with a specific interest in nineteenth and twentieth century women’s and gender history. They research and write about women who are ‘hidden from history’ and who have influenced national and local, social and political issues and/or have been influenced by the environment. Their aim is to demonstrate that there were many forgotten women in all spheres of life, who were not passive but challenged the status quo.