Meaning: This quote by Anna Howard Shaw, a prominent American suffragist and women's rights activist, challenges the notion that women have not contributed anything of value to the world. In response to a gentleman who opposed women's right to vote and expressed the belief that women had never produced anything of value, Shaw cleverly retorted that the chief product of women had been men and left it to him to decide whether that product was of any value. This quote encapsulates the essence of Shaw's advocacy for gender equality and her belief in the significant, albeit often underrecognized, contributions of women to society.

Anna Howard Shaw was a leading figure in the women's suffrage movement in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Born in 1847, Shaw became a powerful orator and influential leader in the fight for women's rights. Her quote reflects the prevalent gender biases and stereotypes that she and other women activists were up against during their struggle for political and social equality.

Shaw's response to the gentleman's assertion is both witty and thought-provoking. By asserting that women's chief "product" has been the men, she challenges the idea that women have not contributed to society. Instead, she highlights the often overlooked role of women in nurturing and shaping the lives of men, who have historically held positions of power and influence. Her statement forces the listener to consider the value of women's influence on the individuals who have played significant roles in shaping history and society.

Furthermore, Shaw's quote raises important questions about societal perceptions of value and the contributions of women. It prompts a reevaluation of the traditional understanding of productivity and worth, particularly in the context of gender roles and expectations. By emphasizing the indirect but profound impact of women on the world through their influence on the men they have raised, Shaw challenges the narrow definition of value and productivity that has often excluded women's contributions.

In a broader historical context, Shaw's quote resonates with the feminist movement's ongoing efforts to challenge patriarchal norms and advocate for the recognition of women's labor, achievements, and worth. It serves as a reminder of the systemic barriers and prejudices that have historically marginalized women and minimized their contributions.

Shaw's own life and work exemplify the valuable contributions of women to society. As a physician, minister, and activist, Shaw defied societal expectations and made significant strides in advancing women's rights. Her leadership and dedication to the suffrage movement were instrumental in securing the passage of the 19th Amendment, which granted women the right to vote in the United States.

In conclusion, Anna Howard Shaw's quote encapsulates the essence of her advocacy for gender equality and challenges the notion that women have not produced anything of value. Through her clever retort, Shaw highlights the profound but often overlooked contributions of women to society, particularly in the nurturing and influence they exert on the men they raise. Her words serve as a poignant reminder of the need to recognize and celebrate the diverse and significant contributions of women throughout history.