Abstract
Dr. Ailie Gale was a prototypical woman missionary who helped change Americans' traditionally uncomplimentary image of China. However, Gale's and other women missionaries' writings remain largely unexamined by scholars who wish to explore Americans' conceptions of the "special friendship" between China and America in the decades of the twentieth century leading to World War II. To understand the historical context of Gale's letters, Professor Zaccarini explores the meanings and values typical to Gale and a presumed "sisterhood" of supporters.