That a man was permitted to beat his wife with a switch no thicker than his thumb was a fact, though it was probably not a formal law anywhere nor stated in common law in exactly that form -- and was almost certainly not the origin of the phrase "rule of thumb." Read more about this myth of women's history:
Explore Women's History
Must Reads
- Women's History Biographies
- Women's Suffrage: What You Need to Know
- Quotes by Women
- Memorial Day and Women's History
- Today in Women's History
Most Popular
By Category
- African American Women's History
- Feminism, Women's Suffrage
- Social Reform
- Queens, Politicians, Laws
- Sports, Athletes
- Military & War
- Ancient Women's History
- Medieval Women's History
- Arts, Writing, Music
- Science, Math
- Medicine, Nursing
- Women's Lives: Home, Family, Religion, Education
- Fashion History
- Work, Labor, Business
- Women's History Basics
Comments
I never heard that story until very recently and thought it bunk when I did hear it, so I do not associate wife beating with “rule of thumb.” Have no problem using it myself and would not be offended (as a woman) if I heard someone else use it.
More pother in a teacup, if you ask me.