Conflict and Compromise in History: Margaret Sanger Papers
Project Celebrates National History Day 2008 "I merely want to
point out the situtaion I found when I entered the battle. One
the one hand, I found the wise men, sages, scientists,
discussing birth control among themselves. But their ideas were
sterile.... I might have taken up a policy of safety, sanity and
conservatism--but would I have got a hearing? And as I became
more conscious of the vital importance of the idea, I felt
myself in the position of one who has discovered that a house is
on fire; and I found that it was up to me to shout out the
warning. The tone of the voice may have been indelicate and
unladylike...but this very gathering...is ample proof that
intelligent and constructive thought has been aroused." Margaret
Sanger, "Hotel Brevoort Speech," January 17, 1916 The theme for
this year is “Conflict and Compromise in History.” Throughout
her career, Margaret Sanger used conflict as a means of gaining
publicity and a forum for her ideas.