Domestic service

"Domestic Service" by Lucy Maynard Salmon is a scholarly historical account written in the late 19th century. This work examines the complex dynamics of domestic service in America, discussing the personal and economic aspects that have shaped its evolution. It aims to shed light on the nature of household employment, the relationships between employers and employees, and the various social and historical contexts influencing domestic service. The opening of the book sets the stage for an in-depth discussion about domestic service as a significant aspect of American life, labeling it "the great American question." Salmon discusses the prevalence and importance of the topic, noting that a myriad of personal experiences and theoretical discussions exist regarding the subject, yet it remains largely absent from formal economic discourse. She highlights the difficulties in obtaining a comprehensive understanding of domestic employment due to its personal nature and raises concerns about the long-standing isolation of household service from broader economic discussions. Salmon's initial chapters promise a rich exploration of the historical dimensions, economic implications, and potential future developments in domestic service. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Lucy Maynard Salmon was an American historian whose work was foundational in the establishment of the field of public history. Salmon was a professor of history at Vassar College from 1889 until her death. Salmon was the first woman to serve on the Executive Committee of the American Historical Association. Salmon published widely in historical journals and general magazines, and was highly active in civic affairs, supporting civil service reform and world and women's suffrage.