Charlotte Perkins Gilman

Charlotte Perkins Gilman was a self-proclaimed philosopher, writer, educator and an intellectual activist of the women's movement from the late 1890's through the mid-1920's. She demanded equal treatment for women as the best means to advance society's progress. She was an extraordinary woman who waged a lifelong battle against the restrictive social codes for women in late nineteenth-century America. Mrs. Gilman was born Charlotte Anna Perkins on July 3, 1860, in Providence, Rhode Island. She was …

…between marriage and career, social expectations, and personal goals continue to impact women's decisions. Her arguments have greatly heightened our understanding of the power of social norms on individuals, making Gilman's life and literary works a role model for many. Even though these works were written a century ago, Gilman's view of womanhood and education remains important as society continues to struggle with issues of gender and women continue to struggle for equality and independence.