American History

A group of Congregational Ministers in Massachusetts which was called the General Association of Massachusetts views the reform impulse in the Early Republic as inappropriate for a woman. Their statement focuses on the dependence of a woman in a state. Women function as a protection and as a reference for character build-up for herself and for her nation. According to them, women influence the society by providing piety and love, which can be done through religious activities at home and in the nation.

The ministers believe that a woman cannot be a public reformer. Women do not have the power to impose and implement social change for it becomes unnatural to their character. The ministers believe that these things are irreversible and are according to the will of God.

In 1818, Angelika Grimke responded to the Congregational ministers through a denouncement of the ministers statement. Grimke brought back abolitionism which she believes was important to regain womens rights. The response talks about the violation of the rights and influences of women through a rampant discrimination of women. During the Early Republic, women are robbed of their belongings, plundered, and even murdered.  It was a political issue brought by the social reform. It needs urgent attention for women must not remain to be silent and controlled by the authorities.

Angelika Grimkes response is more compelling because it considers equality among all members of the American society. The Americans also find this viewpoint to be more compelling since it was a time for a reform impulse. Reform impulse in the Early Republic was an era for social change. It aims to transform America to a nation where individuality is of great importance. Grimkes statement promises and a nation where there is fairness and morality. Her statement emphasizes that putting importance in the individuality of men and women, regardless of their social status, can promise change.