Grimke Sisters: The First American Women Advocates of Abolition and Woman's Rights

by Catherine H. Birney

This book was converted from its physical edition to the digital format by a community of volunteers. You may find it for free on the web. Purchase of the Kindle edition includes wireless delivery.

Genres: Nonfiction, History, Biography

319 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1970

Reviews

[Sea Johnson · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was written in 1885, so the writing is naturally a little heavy handed. The excerpts of the Grimke sister’s diaries and letters between themselves and their associates were fascinating. There was much of the book I felt could have been left out, for example I wasn’t particularly interested in the details of their funeral ceremonies, but the meat of the book during which they’re actively giving speeches and writing articles for the cause of both the abolition of slavery and women’s emancipation were inspiring. Great historical document for anyone interested in the anti-slavery movement and women’s involvement in it.

[April Young · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the original biography of these important reformers. However, the more recent biography by Gerda Lerner is a nicer read for modern audiences.

[Drick · Rating 3 out of 5]

Written in the late 1800's this book gives a close up account of Angelina and Sarah Grimke, two early abolitionists and suffragettes. While their primary cause was slavery, their public presence as women thrust onto the stage of women's rights. Written in the 19th century style with few footnotes, the reading was somewhat tedious but gave a good sense of these two amazing women

[Kristine · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the true story of two sisters born to a wealthy family and raised in pre-civil war South Carolina. Both eventually turned their backs on their old way of life, especially the slavery and excessive finery and moved up north. It is here that they began work for abolition and suffrage.

[Gloria · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was difficult to read. I liked the last half the best.

[Jessica Roberts · Rating 4 out of 5]

Extra, extra, read all about it

The Grimke sisters are a wonderful subject of study for students of civil rights, abolition, women's rights, and, well, all humanity.

[Barbara Ginsberg · Rating 2 out of 5]

Interesting but difficult to read.