National Network for Equitable Library Service

As American women began to reject Victorian propriety, authorities feared that "oversexed" women could destroy civilization if allowed to reproduce and pass on their defects. In 1934, aided by a eugenics law, socialite Maryon Cooper Hewitt had her "promiscuous" daughter declared feebleminded and sterilized. This was to deprive Ann of millions of dollars from her father's estate, which contained a child-bearing stipulation. A sensational court case ensued, captivating the public and eugenicists, who saw a chance to restrict reproductive rights in America.