The existence of early feminism in Asia, which has generally been overlooked, was an important force for social change in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The extent of women’s participation in the social and political movements of that period, in nationalist and patriotic struggles, working-class agitations and peasant rebellions, as well as the formation of autonomous women’s organizations, has so far not been adequately recognized. It is hoped that the provided country studies will be of some use in revealing the role played by women in these processes and in locating it in specific economic, social and political contexts. In this conclusion I look at some of the problems encountered when trying to rescue women’s history, and to comment on the forces that have shaped women’s activities.
