The Story of Abortion in America

A Street-Level History, 1652-2022

By: Marvin Olasky, Leah Savas, Robert P. George - foreword

Narrated by: Aimee Lilly

Tracing the History of Abortion in America by Looking beyond the Laws to the Dramatic Stories and Colorful Personalities of the People They Touched

Fifty years ago, the Roe v. Wade Supreme Court decision to legalize abortion-on-demand sparked nationwide tensions that continue to this day. In the decades since that ruling, abortion opponents and proponents have descended on the Capitol each year for marches and protests. But this story didn't begin with the Supreme Court in the 1970s; arguments about abortion have been a part of American history since the 17th century. So how did we get here?

The Story of Abortion in America traces the long cultural history of this pressing issue from 1652 to today, focusing on the street-level activities of those drawn into the battles willingly or unwillingly. Authors Marvin Olasky and Leah Savas show complex lives on both sides: Some sacrificed much to help the poor and others sacrificed the helpless to empower themselves. The Story of Abortion in America argues that whatever happens legally won't end the debate, but it will affect lives.

• A Fair Survey of the History of the Debate: Opening with a foreword by renowned social conservative thinker Robert P. George, this book explores historic cases and key cultural moments from 1652 to 2022
• Examines 5 Selling Points Used by Each Side in Different Eras: Anatomy, Bible, Community, Danger, and Enforcement
• Chronicles the History of Abortion through Personal Narratives: Includes the memorable stories of Isaac Hathaway, Susan Warren, Elizabeth Lumbrozo, John McDowell, Hugh Hodge, Madame Restell, Augustus St. Clair, Inez Burns, Robert Dickinson, Sherri Finkbine, Henry Hyde, John Piper, Lila Rose, Terrisa Bukovinac, Mark Lee Dickson, and many others
• Written for a Diverse Audience: While particularly useful for Christians who want to understand the history of abortion and its impact on American politics and culture, the book speaks to anyone who cares about abortion

©2023 Marvin Olasky (P)2023 Crossway

Great historical context for American abortion practices

This book gave a thorough historical description of abortion practices and, more importantly, the thoughts behind those practices. Everything from those exploiting the industry to those with humanitarian interests are covered. Excellent book for those wanting a deep dive in the subject.

Very Telling History!

Olasky and Savas combine well-researched history with compelling stories of individuals to create an important book about the history of abortion in America. From abortion in the pre-revolution colonies to the events that led to Roe v Wade's overturning, this book helps readers draw a line through a unified "story." It draws particular attention to the issues and sub-issues that have proved relevant to abortion in America; issues like anatomical understanding, problems of enforcement, the influence of Christianity, and societal change.

Very In-depth and Informative

This book goes into so much detail about the earliest days in the colonies up to today on abortion in America. When I bought this book I assumed it would be more about the “names” we so associate with the issue, like the Supreme Court case itself, etc. but what is covered is eye opening and establishes the political schism it always has been. And how since the beginning, pro life advocate have even portrayed as bigoted zealots. The writing isn’t unduly biased but it comes from a Christian worldview. But abortion is murder no matter how you slice it. So then this is a ultimately a book about mankind’s fall in the garden of Eden and how Satan has the world calling abortion good and Christians evil. It’s as old as time. Well done!!

Extremely interesting

This book was incredibly well written, detailed, and revealing of the personal level history of abortion in America and it’s consequences. Highly recommend.

One of the best books on the issue of abortion.

This is one of the most thorough treatments on the issue of abortion and the humanity of the unborn. Abortion is indeed the greatest human rights issue of our day. The research is impeccable and the ethical reasoning is sound.

Language…

Overall the book is excellent and very informative. It’s very historical in nature so it’s not going to teach you how to argue against abortion like A Case for Life by Scott Klusendorf’s great book.

My only complaint is that it contains foul language in quotes that serve no purpose for the chapter and could have easily been left out. I prefer to avoid hearing those words and getting them in my mind.

Difficult, but important read

The subtitle of this book, A Street-Level History, 1652-2022, surprised me. I thought the issue of abortion was a relatively recent one. This book is the result of researched cases of abortion in the United States from early to recent times allowing the reader to gain perspective and empathy for women and the unborn. The changing norms of society around abortion is also explored. I have a fuller understanding of the factors contributing to this issue because the author has gathered and articulated the facts in a balanced and effective way.

This book does have some graphic depictions of abortion cases which were at times hard to take in. I almost set it aside, but I’m glad I finished this book. The final chapters of the book show the way this topic has been cleaned up and championed by our current population. I hope more people will take the time to read and reflect on the realities of this serious issue.