The Temperance Platform

The Temperance Platform

The Temperance Platform, again compiled by Lizzie Penney, was intended for an older audience. Penney claimed that the book was created “In answer to a widespread and urgent call from prominent workers throughout the country for a book of Speeches and Recitations of a thoroughly representative character for Oratorical Contests, Platform Recitations, and all Temperance meetings.” Topics include personal temperance, “Total Abstinence” from alcohol and tobacco, and “appeals and arguments for the absolute prohibition of the liquor traffic.” Unlike the earlier collections intended for children, all ages, and less formal performance settings, The Temperance Platform emphasizes politics over literature, and contains many more pieces authored by men than women. Speeches of male temperance advocates, religious leaders, and politicians predominate, while only ten women are credited as authors of selections.

Lizzie Penney

The Temperance Platform. Orations on Total Abstinence and Prohibition, Especially Adapted for Prize Contests, Public Meetings, Social Gatherings, Etc. ed. L. Penney (New York: The National Temperance Society and Publication House, 1896).

National Temperance Society and Publication House

1896