Women at the Hague: The International Peace Congress of 1915

In 1915, shortly after the outbreak of World War I, between twelve hundred and two thousand women representing twelve nations journeyed to The Netherlands to plead for peace at The Hague. At this first International Congress of Women they called for continuous mediation until peace was restored, and they met with representatives of the warring governments in an idealistic attempt to halt the military clash. Although they did not stop the war, their proposals are still used as guidelines for most diplomatic negotiations between hostile nations.

Three highly talented, progressive women led the American delegation: two Nobel Peace Prize winners–Jane Addams (cofounder of Hull-House in Chicago) and Emily G. Balch (a distinguished sociologist who taught at Wellesley College)–as well as Alice Hamilton (the first industrial physician in the United States and also the first woman to join the faculty of Harvard University).This book is the first-hand report by these three remarkable women of their mission for peace. Balch and Hamilton devote several chapters to a description of their travels, their visits with various heads of state, and meetings with pacifists in different countries. In a controversial chapter, Addams sharply criticizes the older male patriarchal leadership that manipulates young men to fight needless wars. Addams concludes the volume by advocating women’s full participation as voting citizens to promote the cause of peace and the spirit of internationalism.

This edition is enhanced by an introduction by University of Nebraska scholar Mary Jo Deegan, this new edition of a valuable historical document will be of interest to students of women’s studies, history, and international relations.