Fertility, Class and Gender in Britain, 1860 1940

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Examining the history of declining fertility rates in Britain from 1860 to 1940, this work integrates social sciences with demographic and gender history. Dr. Szreter challenges the traditional view of a uniform class-based decline, revealing diverse fertility regimes across over 200 occupational categories influenced by gendered labor markets and evolving family roles. Key findings highlight the significance of birth spacing and sexual abstinence among married couples. The book proposes a fresh perspective on fertility change, emphasizing the complex interplay of class, community, and feminism.