Monday, January 29, 2007

Bicycling's contribution to feminist progress

Image of Victorian bicycling womenFrom the SFBC Biker Bulletin, 01.22.07:
"The bicycle has been responsible for more movement in manners and morals than anything since Charles II. Under its influence, wholly or in part, have wilted chaperones, long and narrow skirts, tight corsets, hair that would come down, black stockings, thick ankles, large hats, prudery and fear of the dark; under its influence, wholly or in part, have blossomed weekends, strong nerves, strong legs, strong language, knickers, knowledge of make and shape, knowledge of woods and pastures, equality of sex, good digestion and professional occupation--in four words, the emancipation of women."

--John Galsworthy (1867-1933), winner of Nobel Prize for literature in 1932.
It's always helpful to be reminded of bicycling's historic importance to personal liberation, for women and everyone.

Image: Web capture.
Visit: Special Safety Considerations for Women Bicyclists
Visit: Paul Dorn's Bike Commuting Tips Site

1 comment:

  1. Related is this note that bicycles are apparently restricted in North Korea because the bike gives people uncontrolled mobility.

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