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By this accounting, Madame Restell was “one of the boldest women in American history: a self-made millionaire, a celebrity in her era, a woman beloved by many of her patients and despised by the men who wanted to control them.” Her enemies, and there were many, were as upset about the idea of a “mere woman” accumulating wealth and courting celebrity as they were about her profession as an abortionist—maybe even more so.
Contrary to her adopted French persona, Madam Restell was born Ann Trow in Painswick England, 1811. She made her way in the world as a household servant and a seamstress before embarking on the career that would make her famous (or infamous, depending on your point of view). Never an activist or a sign-carrying suffragette, Restell was simply a smart and savvy businesswoman with a penchant for self promotion and a skill set for a much needed medical procedure. She was outspoken and defiant in the face of theocratic malfeasance and frequently locked horns with those who sought to subjugate women and abolish their right of self determination.
“…it remains easier to protect theoretical children—by forcing women to do something they do not wish to do at risk to their own health—than to protect actual children. The government can force a person to give birth, but its interest and responsibility ends there. It is a wonderful way for certain politicians to seem caring without actually having to do anything.” ~Jennifer Wright
Contrary to her adopted French persona, Madam Restell was born Ann Trow in Painswick England, 1811. She made her way in the world as a household servant and a seamstress before embarking on the career that would make her famous (or infamous, depending on your point of view). Never an activist or a sign-carrying suffragette, Restell was simply a smart and savvy businesswoman with a penchant for self promotion and a skill set for a much needed medical procedure. She was outspoken and defiant in the face of theocratic malfeasance and frequently locked horns with those who sought to subjugate women and abolish their right of self determination.
“…it remains easier to protect theoretical children—by forcing women to do something they do not wish to do at risk to their own health—than to protect actual children. The government can force a person to give birth, but its interest and responsibility ends there. It is a wonderful way for certain politicians to seem caring without actually having to do anything.” ~Jennifer Wright
4.5 stars rounded up for the sheer amount of information packed into its pages.
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Super interesting. If you're looking for a tale of a brave activist who fought for abortion rights -- please know that Madame Restell is a rabid capitalist, ha.
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