Women of Congress: A Twentieth Century Odyssey - Hardcover

Kaptur, Marcy

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 0871879891 ISBN 13: 9780871879899

Publisher: Cq Pr, 1996

Synopsis

Looks at the women who have served as legislators in the House and Senate since 1917, when Jeannette Rankin, the first woman elected to Congress, was sworn in

About this title

From Booklist

Fewer than 200 women have served in Congress, and, of those, only 42 served longer than 10 years. Representative Marcy Kaptur, a member of Congress since 1983, has produced a fascinating look at the women who have served as senators and representatives, beginning with Jeannette Rankin in 1917. The contents are divided into three sections: 1917 to World War II, World War II through the 1960s, and the modern era. Each section has an overview that profiles women who were important because of their accomplishments and length of service during this period. Each individual profile discusses problems overcome, political orientation, and accomplishments. The profiles capture the personalities of these fascinating women. The entries on Nancy Kassebaum and Patricia Schroeder are especially interesting in light of their decisions not to run again. Black-and-white photographs are included for 15 of the women profiled; the one of Susan Molinari meeting with a soldier in the Persian Gulf shows that times have indeed changed.

The last part of the book contains several lists: women by Congress; biographees with dates of service, length of service, age sworn in, a brief profile; women who served more than 10 years by years of service; women in Congress by state; and women in the 104th Congress (1995^-1997). This last list is a handy reference with birth date, year sworn in, religion, family status, professional background, key committees, and political interests as illustrated by a pertinent quote. A two-page list of selected readings focusing on biographies and autobiographies is followed by an extensive subject and name index.

Although much of this information can be found by diligent searching in other sources, such as the Official Congressional Directory for each Congress, it is convenient to have the information in one source. The profiles are especially enlightening because they are written by a congresswoman who has a knowledge of what questions to ask and what points to emphasize. This work will be an asset in public, high-school, and academic libraries and will enhance collections in women's studies and political science.

Edition details

• Publisher: Cq Pr
• Publication date: 1996
• ISBN 10: 0871879891
• ISBN 13: 9780871879899
• Binding: Hardcover
• Language: English
• Number of pages: 256