RADICAL WOMEN IN THE BURNED-OVER DISTRICT: ANTEBELLUM RELIGIOUS, RACIAL, AND GENDER CHALLENGES ALONG THE ERIE CANAL

Upstate NY was the fastest growing area of the United States just before the Civil War. Because of the Erie Canal, towns, populations, and businesses thrived in the region. This region was also ground zero for the Second Great Awakening: a zealous wave of religious activity that led to the creation of not only new religious groups but also fueled many reform movements. Women from various ethnic backgrounds were involved in both movements. In this talk, SRJC’s esteemed historian, Anne Donegan, will specifically focus on women who challenged political and religious patriarchy, slavery, and expected gender identities.