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American Queenmaker: How Missy Meloney Brought Women Into Politics

American Queenmaker: How Missy Meloney Brought Women Into Politics

by Julie Des Jardins

Basic Books ·2020 ·384 pages ·Biography
Maybe Someday
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Near the Top

57/99

Critics

Maybe Someday

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Scholars

37/99

Rating

77/99

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About This Book

The first biography of Missy Meloney, the most important woman you've never heard of Marie "Missy" Mattingly Meloney was born in 1878, in an America where women couldn't vote. Yet she recognized the power that women held as consumers and family decision-makers, and persuaded male publishers and politicians to take them seriously. Over the course of her life as a journalist, magazine editor-in-chief, and political advisor, Missy created the idea of the female demographic. After the passage of the 19th Amendment she encouraged candidates to engage with and appeal to women directly. In this role, she advised Presidents from Hoover and Coolidge to FDR. By the time she died in 1943, women were a recognized political force to be reckoned with. In this groundbreaking biography, historian Julie Des Jardins restores Missy to her rightful place in American history.


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Reviews

"Des Jardins' writing inspires all of us in the way Missy clearly inspired others."

Marissa Moss· The New York Journal of Books Read review ↗ Top of the Pile

"Her accomplishments were vast, and Des Jardins capably brings them to light ..."

Kirkus Read review ↗ Top of the Pile

"Based on meticulous archival research, this book details the vast array of projects in which Meloney was involved: arranging Marie Curie's fundraising tours throughout America, campaigning to promote women's college education, advising politicians on strategies to secure women's votes, championing the Better Homes in America movement, and spearheading relief efforts during World War I."

Marie M. Mullaney· Library Journal Read review ↗ Near the Top

"It's about time she got some attention for herself, and this deft offering does an admirable job."

Kathleen McBroom· Booklist Read review ↗ Near the Top

"Des Jardins's portrayal of Meloney as one of the most powerful players of her age is persuasive."

Melanie Kirkpatrick· The Wall Street Journal Read review ↗ Near the Top

"Des Jardins makes a convincing case for Meloney's crucial role in showing American women how to flex their political muscle."

Publishers Weekly Read review ↗ Near the Top

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