Margaret E. Winslow (1836–1936) was an American author, activist, and editor who dedicated much of her life and literary talents to the temperance movement. She is best remembered for her leadership within the Woman's Christian Temperance Union (WCTU) and her contributions to its literary and promotional efforts. Over her long career, she authored several books focused on temperance themes, using her writing to advocate for social reform, Christian values, and moral purity.\n\nBeyond her books, Winslow played a pivotal role in shaping the public voice of the WCTU through her extensive editorial work. She served two separate terms as the editor-in-chief of Our Union, the national organ of the organization. Her tenure in this position was the longest of any editor-in-chief in the publication's history, allowing her to exert a significant and lasting influence over the movement's messaging, outreach, and advocacy strategies.\n\nWinslow is also credited with a lasting symbolic contribution to the WCTU that defined its visual identity. During the National WCTU Convention in Chicago, she inspired the organization to adopt the white ribbon as its official badge. While many members strongly advocated for a patriotic red, white, and blue design, Winslow successfully argued for the white ribbon, emphasizing its simplicity and purity. This symbol remains closely associated with the temperance movement to this day.
