Putting women at the center of interpretation, this seminar explores the impact of historical events on the lives of American women and the varied roles women have played in shaping modern American history. This seminar focuses primarily on women’s history in the second half of the 20th century, or what is frequently called “Second Wave Feminism” from the 1950’s-1970’s. We will explore women’s experiences in the public sphere (i.e., politics, the workplace) and in the private sphere (i.e., housework, motherhood). We will explore the theoretical ideas and conflicts that have helped shape women’s political and private lives from midcentury to the present.

This program will be conducted as a discussion, utilizing primary source documents as the only readings, and with the Discussion Leader facilitating the conversation, instead of lecturing or presenting. Registrants, therefore, are highly encouraged to read all the documents in advance and come ready with questions. All attendees will receive a Letter of Attendance at the end of the seminar.