54 pages • 1 hour read
Stephanie E. Jones-RogersThey Were Her Property: White Women as Slave Owners in the American South
Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2019A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Before You Read
Super Short Summary
They Were Her Property: White Women as Slave Owners in the American South by Stephanie E. Jones-Rogers examines the significant role white women played in the perpetuation and development of slavery in the 19th century United States, arguing that they were active participants rather than passive bystanders. Through detailed analysis, Jones-Rogers explores how these women learned and practiced slave management, navigated the slave market, and adapted to the changes brought by the Civil War and its aftermath, challenging traditional narratives that depict them as disconnected from the brutal realities of slavery. The book discusses the dehumanizing exploitation of enslaved individuals, including forced labor.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
Stephanie E. Jones-Rogers' They Were Her Property reveals women's significant roles as slave owners, challenging patriarchal historical narratives. Scholars praise its meticulous research and fresh perspective, though some critique its repetitive nature and dense academic tone. Overall, a compelling addition to slavery studies.
Who Should Read They Were Her Property?
Readers of They Were Her Property by Stephanie E. Jones-Rogers likely have an interest in American history, particularly slavery, and gender studies. Comparable to White Fragility by Robin DiAngelo and Stamped from the Beginning by Ibram X. Kendi, this book appeals to those seeking to explore the complex roles of women in historical narratives of power and oppression.