Preparation for Citizenship

Chapter 2 details Breckinridge’s brilliant college career at Wellesley College, a women’s college in New England that provided her with a liberal arts education and inspiring role models. During her time at Wellesley, Breckinridge excelled in her coursework, engaged in extracurricular activities, and formed female friendships, allowing her to achieve the contemporary ideal of the “all-around girl.” Breckinridge’s time at Wellesley also challenged her youthful training in racial etiquette, offered her alternatives to conventional womanhood, and strengthened her commitment to social reform. Ultimately, attending Wellesley prepared Breckinridge for a future as a self-supporting professional and a social justice activist.