Harriet Beecher Stowe: How A Novelist Started America's Bloodiest War

ABOUT THE BOOK

Harriet Beecher Stowe was one of the most important authors of the nineteenth century. Her book, Uncle Tom's Cabin transformed the way Americans thought about the institution of slavery and was read by people all over the world. Stowe said that the death of her own mother at a young age gave her sympathy towards the situation of slaves, who were often separated from their own family members. Stowe's book galvanized the abolition movement, and may have even helped begin the American Civil War.

Harriet Beecher Stowe was the daughter of a Congregational minister and her strong faith was evident in her writings. Stowe believed that supporting the abolition movement was a moral imperative for a Christian person, and her work inspired others to join the movement. Her life was remarkable, especially for a woman in the nineteenth century. In a time when women were expected to live their lives in private, Stowe became an international celebrity. The royalties from the sale of her famous book even helped to support her family, something that was unheard of in her day. Women were also discouraged from having strong opinions in the nineteenth century, especially about something as controversial as the practice of slavery. Yet, Stowe broke all of the rules of her society and made a large difference in her own world.

EXCERPT FROM THE BOOK

Religion was always an integral part of the life of Harriet Beecher Stowe. The Beecher children received a strong religious education from their father growing up. Not surprisingly, all seven of her brothers went on to careers in ministry. Her brother, Henry Ward Beecher became a famous Presbyterian minister, and published anti-slavery and temperance pamphlets. As a young girl in the summer of 1825, Stowe made a public declaration of her own faith. Following one of her father's sermons, Stowe resolved to become a Christian and devote her life to God.

When she married Calvin Stowe, she found a partner who also had firm spiritual convictions. Soon after their marriage, Stowe gave birth to twin daughters Eliza Taylor and Harriet Beecher in 1836.

Harriet, called “Hattie,” was an enthusiastic child, while Eliza liked to be home with their mother. Later in their lives, Hattie would travel with her mother on her extensive book and lecture tours. In 1838, Stowe gave birth to her first son, Henry Ellis.

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CHAPTER OUTLINE

Biography of Harriet Beecher Stowe

+ Introduction

+ Early Life

+ Major Accomplishments and Awards

+ The Personal Life of Harriet Beecher Stowe

+ …and much more