[Congressional Record Volume 140, Number 89 (Tuesday, July 12, 1994)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]


[Congressional Record: July 12, 1994]
From the Congressional Record Online via GPO Access [wais.access.gpo.gov]

 
                         MERCY OTIS WARREN DAY

                                 ______


                         HON. WILLIAM J. HUGHES

                             of new jersey

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, July 12, 1994

  Mr. HUGHES. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to introduce a resolution 
designating September 14, 1994, as ``Mercy Otis Warren Day.''
  Many of you may not be familiar with Mercy Otis Warren. Indeed, her 
name is obscure among the American public. However, historians of the 
American Revolution are aware of the contributions made by this 
remarkable woman who was born on September 14, 1728, in Barnstable, MA.
  Recognized as a poet, patriot, and historian of the American 
Revolution, Mercy Otis Warren's writings are credited with providing 
insightful views on the leading political figures of the American 
Revolution and the political viewpoints of the day. One of her major 
literary works, ``The History of the Rise, Progress and Termination of 
the American Revolution'' (1805), is respected primarily for its 
spirited personal opinions of people and events she had known 
firsthand.
  Over time, Mercy Otis Warren became a prominent political commentator 
who was well-respected by her contemporaries for her understanding of 
political issues. Her advice and opinions were sought by such notables 
as John and Samuel Adams and Thomas Jefferson. Mrs. Warren wrote a 19-
page pamphlet published in 1788 entitled, ``Observations On The New 
Constitution,'' which may not be her best known work, but was perhaps 
her most significant. Mrs. Warren's vigorous defense of personal 
liberties contributed to the political movement which culminated in the 
adoption of the Bill of Rights.
  What is most remarkable about Mercy Otis Warren is that she received 
no formal education because of the social mores in the early 1700's 
which placed women in domestic roles. As a young woman, Mercy Otis 
satisfied her thirst for knowledge by sitting-in on her brothers' 
tutoring sessions. As the daughter of a county judge who was also a 
colonel in the militia, Mercy Otis listened to frequent political 
discussions in her home and developed an ardent interest in politics 
and public affairs. A forerunner of the modern feminist movement, Mrs. 
Warren was very interested in the role of women in society and was 
determined that women should not be restricted to domestic interests.
  The life of Mercy Otis Warren is one that should be told to all 
Americans. Recognition is long overdue. I hope my colleagues will join 
me in honoring this great American for her courage, her wisdom, and her 
contributions to early American political thought which gave birth to 
the democratic values we all cherish.
  Please join me in cosponsoring this resolution which designates 
September 14, 1994, as ``Mercy Otis Warren Day.''

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