Professor Klausen’s book is one of five books shortlisted for the Wallace K. Ferguson Prize, which is awarded by the Canadian Historical Association to recognise the outstanding scholarly book in a field of history other than Canadian history. This is the second time in as many years that the work of members of the department has been recognised: in 2014 Mark Salber Philips won the prize for his book, On Historical Distance (2013).
Professor Klausen’s book examines how the ruling Afrikaner National Party attempted to regulate women’s reproductive sexuality under apartheid (1948-1990). She chronicles the extreme lengths to which women facing unwanted pregnancy would go to control their destinies. For more on the book, see the interview with Professor Klausen.
Abortion Under Apartheid: Nationalism, Sexuality, and Women’s Reproductive Rights in South Africa is published by Oxford University Press. The winner will be announced on May 31 at the CHA Annual Prize Ceremonies that will be held during Congress in Calgary.
