Who Is Sadie Hawkins — And Why Is a Dance Named After Her?

The Sadie Hawkins dance is a familiar tradition to most Americans, best known for the custom of girls asking boys to the dance instead of the other way around. In a world where women run businesses, lead governments, and head nearly half of U.S. households, setting aside one special night for girls to take the lead can feel unnecessary and outdated. Still, the story behind Sadie Hawkins herself offers a fascinating window into Depression-era America and the surprising ways popular culture can shape real-life traditions for generations. Mind you, Sadie Hawkins wasn’t a real person. ...Read More