In this third week of Women's History Month, we are looking at social history books that will help you better understand her life.
Title: The Woman They Could Not Silence: The Shocking Story of a Woman Who Dared to Fight Back
Author: Kate Moore
Publisher: Sourcebooks
Synopsis: "1860: As the clash between the states rolls slowly to a boil, Elizabeth Packard, housewife and mother of six, is facing her own battle. The enemy sits across the table and sleeps in the next room. Her husband of twenty-one years is plotting against her because he feels increasingly threatened – by Elizabeth’s intellect, independence, and unwillingness to stifle her own thoughts. So Theophilus makes a plan to put his wife back in her place. One summer morning, he has her committed to an insane asylum." (author's website)
Why You Need This Book: Although this is based on a singular woman's experience, it does provide insight into marriage and the institutionalization of white women in 19th century America. Some of the background history may be helpful as you consider a woman in your family tree with a similar experience. I also think the description of marriage during this time period and how women fared under coverture is valuable. Moore's book, Radium Girls is also an important read.
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