How does this compare to 'The Women's Temperance Crusade' by Annie Wittenmyer?

Bordin's book provides a broader historical context and focuses on the WCTU's influence, while Wittenmyer offers a more personal narrative.

Does Bordin practice what she preaches?

As a historian, Bordin focuses on presenting an accurate historical account rather than offering personal advice or practices.

Is the chapter 'The Political is Personal' worth reading if I only want historical facts?

Yes, it provides detailed historical facts while also exploring the personal dimensions of political advocacy.

What does Bordin mean by 'The Home Protection Ballot'?

It's a historical campaign by the WCTU linking women's suffrage to temperance, advocating for women's right to vote for home protection.

How difficult is the book to read?

The book is moderately challenging, requiring some interest in historical context and social movements, but it's not overly academic.

What role did public speaking play in the temperance movement?

Bordin highlights how public speaking tours were essential for spreading the temperance message and rallying support for women's rights.

Is it worth reading if I want modern self-help advice?

No, the book focuses on historical analysis rather than providing contemporary self-help strategies.

How does Bordin address the sacrifices women made?

She details personal stories and hardships faced by women, emphasizing the personal costs of their public activism.

Woman and Temperance by Ruth Birgitta Anderson Bordin — book cover

Self-Help

Woman and Temperance — Book Summary & Review

Name: Woman and Temperance
Author: Ruth Birgitta Anderson Bordin
ISBN: 9780877221579

by Ruth Birgitta Anderson Bordin

Last updated: July 2026

3 min read

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Woman and Temperance Summary

Bordin opens with the striking narrative of Frances Willard, a key figure in the Woman's Christian Temperance Union, to illustrate the profound influence women had on temperance movements. The book is structured into sections that explore the intersection of women's rights and temperance, with chapters like 'The Political is Personal' offering a deep dive into the personal sacrifices made by these women. Bordin meticulously details how the WCTU became a platform for women to engage in public life, using temperance as a springboard for broader social reform. While the historical context is rich, the book does not provide modern strategies for those seeking current self-help guidance, which might frustrate readers looking for actionable advice. Bordin's analysis is both thorough and thought-provoking, yet the historical focus may not resonate with those uninterested in past movements.

Key Takeaways from Woman and Temperance

1
Frances Willard's Leadership: Showcases how one woman's vision propelled the WCTU to the forefront of social reform.
2
The Home Protection Ballot: Highlights the WCTU's campaign for women's suffrage linked to temperance advocacy.
3
Personal Sacrifices: Details the personal costs faced by women active in the temperance movement.
4
Public Speaking Tours: Bordin emphasizes the role of public lectures in spreading temperance and women's rights messages.
5
Political is Personal: Explores how personal experiences of women were used to advocate for public policy changes.

Who Should Read This

Someone who is passionate about the history of women's rights and social movements, particularly within the temperance context. If you're curious about the impact of the WCTU on public life, this book offers a detailed exploration.

Who Shouldn't Read This

If you are looking for a practical self-help book with modern techniques and strategies, this will disappoint. The historical focus might frustrate those uninterested in past social movements and their implications.

Editor's Verdict

The best part of Bordin's book is her detailed account of Frances Willard's transformative impact on the temperance movement. However, it lacks modern self-help strategies for contemporary readers. Anyone deeply interested in the historical intersections of women's rights and temperance will find this illuminating, especially when reflecting on past activism.

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Woman and Temperance — Frequently Asked Questions

About Ruth Birgitta Anderson Bordin

Ruth Birgitta Anderson Bordin was an American historian and author, known for her work on women's history and social movements. She earned her Ph.D. from the University of Michigan, where she later served as a faculty member. Bordin's expertise in women's studies and history is evident in her book "Woman and Temperance," which examines the role of women in the temperance movement. She also authored "Alice Freeman Palmer: The Evolution of a New Woman" and "Frances Willard: A Biography."