Dorothy Sybil Douglas

Dorothy Douglas (1890–1968) was a New York academic known for her contributions to the fields of economics and activism. Throughout her career, she played a role in shaping discussions on economic issues and advocating for social change.

Early Life and Education

Dorothy was born into the Wolff family, known for their significant contributions to the banking sector in Bavaria. After relocating to New York, the family continued their financial pursuits at Kuhn, Loeb & Co., a pivotal investment banking firm involved in financing America's expanding railways. Tragedy struck early when her father, Lewis Wolff, passed away at the age of 48 in 1905, leaving her mother, Clara Wolff, to provide unwavering support.

Academic Pursuits

Dorothy's mother encouraged her education and passion for travel. Dorothy attended Bryn Mawr, an all-women's college founded in 1885. Her choice reflected a commitment to academic excellence, as Bryn Mawr was the first institution to offer graduate degrees to women.

After graduating in 1912 with a Bachelor of Arts in History & Philosophy, Dorothy pursued a Ph.D. in Economics at Columbia, obtaining the degree in 1915. Her dedication to academia and commitment to social causes laid the foundation for a distinguished career.

Marriage, Motherhood, and Career

In 1915, Dorothy married Paul Douglas, a fellow economics graduate student at Columbia. The couple had four children. Despite initially relocating to Chicago, Dorothy found her professional calling at Smith College in Northampton, MA, in 1919. There, became a full professor and Chair of the Economics Department.

In the late 1930s, one of her students was Betty Friedan, later attributed with sparking the feminist movement through her seminal work, "The Feminine Mystique." Dorothy's lectures on the suppression of women in Germany served as the inspiration for Friedan.

Activism

Dorothy's activism extended to her collaboration with Katherine du Pre Lumpkin, a sociologist and longtime companion. Together, they established the Institute of Labor Studies in Northampton from 1940 to 1953, producing significant research, including a book on child labor in America published in 1937.

Facing political scrutiny during the House Un-American Activities Committee hearings in March 1953, Dorothy refused to testify about her alleged involvement in "Communist fronts." Forced to resign from Smith College under pressure from the board of trustees, Dorothy continued her activism, refusing to conform to societal expectations.

Later Years and Legacy

Dorothy's later years served as a visiting professor at the University College in Nairobi and concluding her career as a Professor at Hofstra University.

Despite her significant contributions, Dorothy's recognition has not always paralleled her impact. Katherine du Pre Lumpkin is listed among the top 100 most influential women authors of the 20th century, while Dorothy's alma mater, Bryn Mawr, overlooks her as a distinguished alumna.