what was the status of women in the late 18th century and what is republican motherhood?

Answer 1

I can't find the direct reference on line but I recall from my History class that a woman's status was only as good as the family she came from or the man she married. She was not allowed to hold property, vote or have her own bank account. She had no opportunity for employment other than housekeeper, maid, cook, child care or whore, if she was lucky enough to be educated she was relegated to teaching and spinsterhood.

Wikipedia on Republican Motherhood: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Republican_motherhood
The concept of "republican motherhood" arose during and after the American Revolution in the 13 colonies (later, the United States of America). As the principles of republicanism rose in importance to the rebelling colonists, American society gradually came to promote the idea that women needed to clearly understand and embrace these values, so that they could be to their children at a young age and help secure their central position in the minds and hearts of Americans. Republican motherhood developed between 1760 and 1800 but extended well into the 19th century. It never in fact vanished. Important advocates included Abigail Adams and Judith Sargent Murray, whom Kerber (1997 p 120) called "the most vigorous single voice—of the ideology I have called republican motherhood."