Shirley Wheeler, the First Woman in America to Have an Abortion

Shirley wheeler was the first woman in america to be held criminally responsible for having an abortion. Horace smith remembers that the court room was packed. Dozens of people were turned away at the door. As i recall, there were protesters outside, a faint glorious steinham was outside. I don't think gloria steinhamwas actually there, but this was a big moment. All that was left to decide was shirley's sentence. On october fifteenth, 19 71, the judge issued his ruling, two years probation.

Transcript

Play full episode

The AI-powered Podcast Player

Save insights by tapping your headphones, chat with episodes, discover the best highlights - and more!

Get the app