Natural Allies: Women's Associations in American History (Women, Gender, and Sexuality in American History)

Natural Allies: Women's Associations in American History (Women, Gender, and Sexuality in American History) by Scott, Anne Firor. paperback edition. ISBN: 9780252063206.

Americas female benevolent societies took root in the 1790s. Initially founded on notions of Christian duty and hope of heavenly reward, these groups produced volunteers dedicated to providing aid to unfortunates in general and women and children in particular. Anne Frior Scott explores the history of these aid societies and how they allowed women to influence Americas social agenda and make inroads into politics long before they could vote. Scott reveals how women from all corners of society took part; examines their changing role in the midst of tumultuous times and during the rise of the welfare state; assesses the overlooked accomplishment of black womens organizations from the early days of the republic; and looks at the kinds of enduring community institutions womens organizations founded and maintained.