Here's why her work was controversial:
* Social and Religious Norms: In the early 20th century, discussing sex and contraception was taboo. Sanger's advocacy challenged traditional religious and social norms that viewed birth control as immoral and sinful.
* Eugenics: Sanger's early writings and some of her actions aligned with the eugenics movement, which aimed to improve the human race through selective breeding. She believed that limiting the number of children born to certain groups, particularly those she deemed "unfit," would benefit society. While she later distanced herself from this position, her earlier writings and associations with eugenicists continued to be a point of contention.
* Access to Healthcare: Sanger's work also sparked debates about women's access to healthcare. Her efforts to provide information and access to contraceptives were seen as empowering women, but they also faced opposition from those who believed that women should not have control over their reproductive choices.
It's important to note that:
* Sanger's legacy is complex: While she played a crucial role in the fight for reproductive rights, her early associations with eugenics remain a source of controversy.
* Modern feminist movements: Many modern feminist movements have distanced themselves from Sanger's early work and have focused on advocating for reproductive rights for all people, regardless of their social background or genetics.
Ultimately, Margaret Sanger's legacy is a complex one. Her work undoubtedly contributed to the progress of women's reproductive rights, but it also carries the stain of her early connections to the eugenics movement.