During Women's History Month, names such as Eleanor Roosevelt,
Amelia Earhart and Rosa Parks should be remembered. There is,
however, an unsung heroine of earlier vintage who most likely
will be overlooked. Margaret Fuller, unknown to most Americans,
was one of the pre-eminent figures of her era, and her
historical importance is recognized in academic circles as well
as among feminist leaders. Fuller was born in Cambridge, Mass.,
near Harvard, in 1810. Although her life was destined to be
tragically brief, she would achieve considerable fame during two
decades of civic engagement. (Engraving — Chappel) Fuller's
short but crowded career was filled with numerous important
social reforms, particularly the cause of women's rights.
Precocious, Margaret was fortunate to have a caring but
demanding father who tutored his daughter as she pursued a
rigorous classical education. Fuller proved to be a bright and
enthusiastic student who absorbed knowledge rapidly. By the time
she reached her mid-teens, Margaret had mast