A scholarly yet lively study, describing how prominent men of the period helped women achieve emancipation and civil rights. Profiles Parliamentarians such as Jacob Bright and Keir Hardie, and writers including Meredith and Shaw who popularized the women's cause. Examines the work of pioneers in women's education, and of members of the medical and other professions who challenged the prejudices of their colleagues. Also looks at the work of Mahatma Gandhi and his work for women in the freedom movement. Includes b&w photos and illustrations of key figures. The author is a senior research associate at Queen Elizabeth House, Oxford, UK. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)