“Motherhood is the biggest gamble in the world. It is the glorious life force. It’s huge and scary —it’s an act of infinite optimism.” – Gilda Radner

From primordial goddesses to present day working moms, the roles of mothers and society’s expectations of her have experienced a myriad of changes. With Mother’s Day fast approaching, this week we explore mythic figures, cultural traditions, and the history behind this modern holiday.

Julia Ward Howe’s “Mother’s Day Proclamation”

Ancient mother goddesses

“Mother Madness” on the Journal

Birthing traditions around the world

“A Brief History of How We Think About Motherhood”

Stories of medieval mothers who had to “marry and murder to get their way”

In Alabama: Mother’s Day Freedom Riders ***Please note that there is some ugly language at the beginning of this article, but this is used in a historical context. At Alabama Chanin, it is our goal to shine an unflinching light on our past while creating new narratives for an inclusive future.***