Carolyn J. Eichner

Carolyn J. Eichner, a Professor of History and Women’s and Gender Studies, delves into the intricate connections between 19th-century French feminisms and imperialism. She discusses five pioneering feminists, highlighting their diverse political philosophies—from anarchism to conservatism—and their complex critiques of empire. Eichner challenges the simplistic pro- vs. anti-imperialist narratives by showcasing how these feminists navigated and sometimes embraced imperial contexts in their pursuit of gender liberation. Her insights reveal the deeply intertwined nature of gender and power.