Ernestine L. Rose (1810-1892): Reclaiming Her Place in History March 13, 2012

Rose was the first person to petition a state legislature in the U.S. for women's rights; the first to say, "Women's rights are human rights." In the 1830s before there was an organized women's movement, Rose became a mentor and colleague to Stanton and Anthony. As an immigrant, a Jew, and a freethinker, she was outside the predominantly American-born Protestants mainstream of reform movements. Nevertheless her eloquence, logic, and humor made her a valued leader. I will share initial successes of the Ernestine Rose Society and her increasing recognition following publication of my collection of her speeches and letters.