Republican Motherhood Blog

•   What role did the Revolutionary War play in the transformation of housewifery to Republican Motherhood?

The Revolutionary War was a main cause if the shift in the role of motherhood. Since, many of the men were out fighting, it was up to the mothers to take responsibility of the household and educate the children. Mothers were thought of as  "nurse and the educator" of "...future man and [his] undying spirit..."  for democracy and republicanism. (Document A). The women took on this role, to provide for her children and get them ready for the future. mothers were the "nurse and the educator" of "...future man and [his] undying spirit..."  for democracy and republicanism. (Document A). 

• What were the consequences of Republican Motherhood on women?

The consequences of Republican motherhood, actually benefitted the women. They received formal education and gained more rights then before. Women also began to be viewed in a new light by men. Believing that women "best serves her country by training up good citizens, just, humane, and enlightened legislatures" (Document A).The women were also important for the "destiny of our country" as it was he duty to prepare her sons for the future and the benefit of the country.( Document D). 

• What is the significance of the ideology of Republican Motherhood as a stage in the process of women’s socialization?

The ideology of Republican Motherhood was significant because it was the first step in the process of women's socialization. Women were more interested in there own beliefs and ideas, and gained more confidence. For example, women began to group together, "...asserting the importance and the honour of their sex" (Document C). They passed their beliefs to their children, which later led to better equality for women. 

Your blog will also need to include a portrait of Mary Gibson Tilghman and her sons by Charles Willson Peale (1789) where you will complete the following after your posted photo.

• Describe the setting.

A portrait of Mary Gibson with he two sons, who are well dressed and seem content. They are all sitting on a couch. 

• Who serves at the center of the portrait and why?  How does the woman look?  How is she “republican” rather than aristocratic?

The center of the portrait is the mother, because she was the center of the household and home life as well as learning and supporting the children at that time. It also shows that women have become a important part of family life. This symbolizes a republican painting because she is holding her children close to her to show their bond and also that they are wearing more common clothing. 

• What values do her sons exhibit?

Her sons show their feelings of respect and genuine love for their mother. Represented by their closeness to their mother. This proves that mothers had a signifcicant role in her children's upbringing during this time. As a result of this, her children will retain these values, and become the American men that they were raised and planned to be.

• Is there a significance to the position of Mrs. Tilgham’s arm?

The placement of her arm, represents republican motherhood, in that they take care of their children and have a special bond with them. Also, that she would do anything for them and protect them and get them ready for the world.