Civil War Wives: The Lives and Times of Angelina Grimke Weld, Varina Howell Davis, and Julia Dent Grant

"Civil War Wives: The Lives and Times of Angelina Grimke Weld, Varina Howell Davis, and Julia Dent Grant" delves into the captivating narratives of three women intertwined with the socio-political fabric of the Civil War era. Published on September 8, 2009, this book by Carol Berkin presents a unique lens on gender equality by exploring the lives of women who, despite their proximity to power, navigated their existence amidst formidable personal and public challenges. Angelina Grimké Weld, a staunch antislavery advocate, struggled with the confines of marriage silencing her once-vocal stance against her Southern family’s values. Varina Howell Davis, the reluctant First Lady of the Confederacy, faced marital discord for her independent views and later channeled her acumen into lobbying for her husband’s release. Julia Dent Grant epitomized the domestic ideal yet only later recognized the costs of her dependency. Ideal for adult education groups, this book not only recounts history but prompts a critical reflection on the women’s roles and voices during tumultuous times, urging readers to consider how much has changed and what remains the same in the quest for gender equality.