Gender in World History

Peter N. Stearns regularly teaches courses in world history and gender history. He has written extensively in both areas, and in related fields such as the history of childhood and the history of emotions. Recent books include Happiness in World History (2020) and From World Past to World Present (2021).

0. Introduction PART I: THE FORMATION OF PATRIARCHAL TRADITIONS: From the Rise of Agriculture to the 15th Century 1. FROM AGRICULTURE TO EARLY CIVILIZATION: The Establishment of Patriarchy 2. The Classical Period and Early Contacts 3. Religion, Gender and New Patterns of Contact 4. Islamic Standards outside the Heartland 5. The Chinese Influence Conclusion of Part I: The Advance of Patriarchy: Gender and Contacts in Agricultural Societies PART II: MIXED SIGNALS: Transitions in Gender Relations, 1500–1900 6. ARE WOMEN MORE MORAL THAN MEN? Changes in the Western Model, 1500–1900 7. Europeans and Native Americans 8. Men and Women amid British Imperialism in India 9. Western Influences and Regional Reactions 10. Reform Movements and Gender Conclusion of Part II: Gender Contact amid Rising World Trade PART III: THE CONTEMPORARY WORLD 11. New International Influences 12. Global Consumer Culture 13. The Middle East in the Contemporary Era 14. Latin America 15. New Global Influences—And New Resistances: Developments since the 1990s Conclusion of Part III: Gender and Contact in Modern Societies Epilogue: Big Picture: From Patriarchy to New Debate: The Role of Contacts in the Evolution of Gender