History ETDs

Publication Date

Summer 7-28-2026

Abstract

Motherhood and child welfare became central organizing principles for reform during the United States Progressive Era.  From these guiding principles, the government formed the United States Children’s Bureau. It was the country's first governmental agency that focused solely on the welfare of children. Mothers writing to the federal government for motherhood advice was a phenomenon that was completely new to twentieth century mothers. Women took pride in their roles as mothers, particularly when it came to child health matters. To the generation of mothers who came before these early twentieth century letter writers, asking the government for advice on child rearing instead of depending upon female networks likely would have seemed absurd. Understanding the change in the meaning of motherhood explains why women eventually looked beyond traditional female networks for parental guidance. They increasingly sought advice about motherhood from sources outside of familiar female networks and outside of the home.

Level of Degree

Masters

Degree Name

History

Department Name

History

First Committee Member (Chair)

Dr. Shannon Withycombe

Second Committee Member

Dr. Karen Leong

Third Committee Member

Dr. Katherine Massoth

Keywords

Maternalism, Gender, Women, Child Welfare, Children's Bureau, United States

Document Type

Thesis

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