The NPR Politics Podcast America Before Roe v. Wade
May 7, 2022
Dive into the world before Roe v. Wade, exploring the harrowing realities women faced with illegal abortions. Discover how historical shifts in abortion laws set the stage for this landmark decision. The discussion also delves into the evolving legal landscape post-Roe, highlighting disparities across states and the rising partisanship surrounding the issue. Gain insights on how other countries manage abortion legislation compared to the U.S., revealing striking contrasts in access and public health systems.
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Pre-Roe Abortion Landscape
- Before Roe v. Wade, illegal abortions were a public health crisis, ranging from 200,000 to over a million annually.
- Societal stigma and workplace discrimination made it difficult for unmarried women with children.
Illegal Abortion Experience
- In 1973, a woman shared her experience with illegal abortion, expressing shame and isolation.
- Lack of support from institutions and individuals made her feel alone during the crisis.
Unsafe Abortion Practices
- George Frampton, Justice Blackmun's law clerk, recalls young women hemorrhaging from botched abortions in college dorms.
- Unsafe, illegal abortions were performed in unsanitary conditions with crude tools, often by unqualified individuals.