Free Woman: The Life and Times of Victoria Woodhull

"Free Woman: The Life and Times of Victoria Woodhull" delves into the remarkable life of a woman who defied the norms of her Victorian era to advocate for gender equality, racial justice, and voting rights. Published on September 2, 2014, this biography by Marion Meade brings to light the often overlooked contributions of Victoria Woodhull, the first female presidential candidate in the United States. Coming from a background of poverty and having worked as a fortune-teller, actress, stockbroker, and journalist, Woodhull was a fierce proponent of women’s suffrage, but her campaign transcended this single issue. She boldly challenged the societal norms of her time by advocating for a single sexual standard for men and women, the legalization of prostitution, and reform of marriage and family institutions. Meade captures the essence of the 1870s while drawing compelling parallels to the struggles that persist in modern times, making it an essential read for college students studying social justice, history, and gender studies. This narrative not only paints a vivid picture of an unconventional woman but also prompts readers to reflect on how the echoes of Woodhull's radical ideas resonate today.