Marla Miller Publishes New Article on Betsy Ross and Women’s Work in the American Revolution
Content
Marla Miller, Distinguished Professor of History, has published a new article in The Conversation exploring the historical legacy of Betsy Ross and the broader role of women’s labor during the American Revolution.
Titled “What Betsy Ross’ real story tells us about women’s work in the Revolution − and why it still matters 250 years later,” the piece draws on Miller’s award-winning scholarship to reassess the iconic story of Betsy Ross and the first American flag. The article highlights how popular myths have obscured the larger and more significant reality: that thousands of women played essential roles in wartime production, from sewing flags and uniforms to supporting military logistics.
The article is based on Miller’s acclaimed book, which was recognized on The Washington Post’s “Best of 2010” list and named a finalist for the prestigious Cundill History Prize.