How I Learned to Ride the Bicycle
Reflections of an Influential 19th Century Woman
- 104 pages
- 4 hours of reading
A best-seller since its publication over a century ago, Frances Willard's thoughtful meditation on the liberating qualities of learning to ride a bicycle has captivated readers for generations. Written in 1895, during her tenure as president of the Women's Christian Temperance Union, the work transcends a mere personal narrative of cycling. Willard recognized cycling as a gateway to independence, confidence, and mobility for women. Her determination to ride, despite the constraints of age, heavy skirts, and societal expectations, is truly inspiring. The prose is enchanting, blending personal anecdotes with profound reflections on American culture, women's suffrage, and social progress. This delightful classic remains relevant today, proudly back in print for a new audience. Frances Willard (1839-1898) is celebrated for her extensive social reform efforts, addressing issues such as temperance, women's suffrage, education, worker's rights, and prison reform. As a high-profile member and president of the Women's Christian Temperance Union, she founded the World WCTU, the first international women's advocacy group. Willard's powerful writing and advocacy place her among the most significant figures in the fight for women's emancipation.
