Quoting Matilda: The Words and History of a Forgotten Suffragist

 

Rediscovering a Forgotten Feminist Pioneer: Quoting Matilda: The Words and History of a Forgotten Suffragist

When we think of the pioneers of the women's suffrage movement, names like Susan B. Anthony and Elizabeth Cady Stanton come to mind. But there’s a name that has often been overlooked—Matilda Joslyn Gage. Her remarkable contributions, passion, and progressive ideas are brought to life in Quoting Matilda: The Words and History of a Forgotten Suffragist, a book that reminds us of her essential place in history.

Matilda Joslyn Gage: The Unsung Hero of Women’s Rights

Born in upstate New York to an abolitionist family, Matilda Joslyn Gage was surrounded by the ideals of justice and equality from a young age. Her childhood home, as well as her later residence in Fayetteville, New York, served as stops on the Underground Railroad, reflecting her family’s commitment to ending slavery. This environment shaped her into a lifelong advocate for the oppressed, including women, enslaved persons, and Native Americans.

Gage was an integral part of the suffrage movement, working alongside Anthony and Stanton as part of their powerful triumvirate. However, her radical views—often ahead of their time—led to her being “written out of history.” Her work was deemed “too extreme” by many of her peers, but her ideas remain profoundly relevant today.

The Radical Vision of Matilda Joslyn Gage

Gage’s feminism extended beyond voting rights. She advocated for women’s property ownership, governance, and equality in power, drawing inspiration from her Haudenosaunee neighbors. Adopted into the Haudenosaunee Wolf Clan, Gage admired their matriarchal governance and championed their model of equality.

Her activism wasn’t limited to suffrage. She boldly criticized the inequality of women in religious institutions, co-authoring The Woman’s Bible with Stanton. Her book, Women, Church, and State, was groundbreaking, tackling the systemic oppression of women through religion—a stance that many found too provocative.

Gage also championed women inventors and tirelessly fought for the rights of Native Americans. Her progressive ideals inspired those around her, including her son-in-law, L. Frank Baum, the creator of The Wizard of Oz series, whose works echo her themes of empowerment and justice.

Why Matilda Joslyn Gage Matters Today

Matilda’s vision of justice and equality transcended her era. Her life demonstrates the power of pushing boundaries and challenging societal norms, even at great personal cost. She believed in equality for all, regardless of gender, race, or creed, and her advocacy continues to inspire new generations of activists and feminists.

Quoting Matilda: A Treasure Trove of Inspiration

Quoting Matilda: The Words and History of a Forgotten Suffragist revives Gage’s legacy through her most poignant words and actions. Each quote is a window into her fiery intellect, indomitable spirit, and unwavering commitment to equality. Whether you’re new to her story or already an admirer, this book will deepen your appreciation for the breadth of her work and the boldness of her ideas.

Why You Should Read This Book

Matilda Joslyn Gage’s story challenges us to question whose voices have been left out of history and why. By rediscovering her words and learning about her life, we not only honor her contributions but also gain tools to confront modern inequalities.

Let her voice inspire you: “Progress is born of agitation. It is agitation or stagnation.”

Get Your Copy Today

Immerse yourself in the life and legacy of one of history’s most radical and visionary feminists. Quoting Matilda: The Words and History of a Forgotten Suffragist is a must-read for anyone passionate about justice, equality, and the untold stories of trailblazers who changed the world.