Inventing the American woman

by Glenda Riley

"This book ... presents an introduction to the history of women in the United States that combines factual knowledge with a specific thesis intended to provoke discussion and further thought. It is my hope that it will inform, enlighten, and expand the thinking of all who read it. In an attempt to achieve these goals, this book necessarily emphasizes what historian Kathryn Kish Sklar terms 'gender specific' experiences. It focuses on those historical episodes that are more germane to one gender than the other. Specifically, women's work, socialization, roles, activities, and cultural values are of primary concern. ... More specifically, this volume compares the model that was to direct American women's behavior with women's reactions to it."--From the introduction.