Only the Clothes on Her Back by Laura F. Edwards is a compelling and thought-provoking exploration of the intersection of law, gender, and social justice in the 19th century American South. Edwards delves into the lives of women who found themselves entangled in legal battles, often with only the clothes on their backs as tangible assets. Through meticulous research and vivid storytelling, she unveils the complexities of these women’s struggles for autonomy and economic independence.

Edwards skillfully navigates the historical landscape, weaving together legal narratives rooted in sumptuary laws and personal stories to illustrate the challenges faced by women during this tumultuous period. Her writing is both accessible and academically thorough, making the book accessible to a broad audience, from scholars to general readers interested in the history of women’s rights – and ways in which law has long sought to control women.

The author’s nuanced analysis sheds light on the ways in which the legal system both constrained and offered opportunities for women, particularly those marginalized by race and class. “Only the Clothes on Her Back” is a significant contribution to the scholarship on legal history, offering a fresh perspective on the struggles and triumphs of women in the 19th century South. Edwards’ work is an engaging and enlightening read that invites readers to reflect on the enduring implications of historical legal battles for women’s rights. For a copy from Oxford University Press: https://global.oup.com/ushe/product/only-the-clothes-on-her-back-9780197760406?cc=ca&lang=en&