Life Quote by Ruth Bordin
““intended by him to characterize American expatriates living in Europe: women of affluence and sensitivity, who despite or perhaps because of their wealth exhibited an independent spirit and were accustomed to acting on their own. The term New Woman always referred to women who exercised control over their own lives be it personal, social, or economic””
About This Quote
Source Book: Women in the New World, Ruth Bordin, 1995
Describes affluent, sensitive American women in Europe who exercised personal, social, and economic independence, embodying the “New Woman.”
In simple terms: Wealthy American women abroad were independent and self‑directed.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and support women’s autonomy across contexts.
Themes
gender
independence
culture
class
identity
Mood
reflective
empowering
Type
historical
sociological
When to use this quote
- expatriate life
- career advancement
- financial independence
- social activism
Key Concepts
feminism
social autonomy
economic agency
Questions to Reflect On
- How does wealth affect personal freedom?
- What barriers still limit women’s autonomy?
A Different Perspective
Wealth can also constrain choices and create expectations of conformity.
