Harriet Beecher Stowe.docVIP

Harriet Beecher Stowe(1811-1896) Biographical Introduction Harriet Beecher Stowe (1811-1896) published more than 30 books, but it was her best-selling anti-slavery novel Uncle Toms Cabin which catapulted her to international celebrity and secured her place in history.But Uncle Toms Cabin was not Stowes only work. Her broad range of interests resulted in such varied publications as childrens text books, advice books on homemaking and childrearing, biographies and religious studies. The informal, conversational style of her many novels permitted her to reach audiences that more scholarly or argumentative works would not, and encouraged everyday people to address such controversial topics as slavery, religious reform, and gender roles.Harriet Beecher Stowe believed her actions could make a positive difference. Her words changed the world. 2. Childhood and education Harriet Elisabeth Beecher was born June 14, 1811 in Litchfield, CT to the Rev. Lyman Beecher (1775-1863) and Roxanna Foote Beecher (1775- 1816); the sixth of 11 children. The Beechers expected their children to shape their world: All seven sons became ministers, then the most effective way to influence society Oldest daughter Catharine pioneered education for women Youngest daughter Isabella was a founder of the National Womens Suffrage Association Harriet believed her purpose in life was to write. Her most famous work exposed the truth about the greatest social injustice of her day - human slavery Family Life  Roxanna Beecher died when Stowe was only five years old. Her later pursuit of painting and drawing honored her mothers talents in those areas. Oldest sister Catharine became an important maternal influence. Stowe wrote at an early age: at seven, she won a school essay contest earning praise from her father. Lymans second wife, Harriet Porter Beecher (1800-1835), was a beautiful woman slightly overwhelmed by the 8 boisterous children she inherited. Her own children, Isabella, Thomas