It can be difficult to determine whether a social movement is a success or failure. Some efforts are lost over time or proven to have no merit. Whether or not a movement develops into law or a new standard does not define its victory. Undertakings like acceptance of birth control and eugenics contribute to a larger picture within history, which in turn can demonstrate their success, failure and impact.
In Rose Holz’s work entitled, Nurse Gordon on Trial: Those Early Days of the Birth Control Clinic Movement Reconsidered, Adele Gordon and her husband were arrested for “Displaying indecent articles to the public,” and “Having indecent articles in her possession with intent to sell,” among other charges. In the end, both she and her husband were acquitted; however, her exoneration was not what made the birth control clinic a success. As the clinic movement gained momentum, the American Medical Association became more opposed to their activities. It seems that the AMA certainly felt threatened by Irregular clinics which in itself, could be considered successful. One doctor noted, “The clinic has become as ubiquitous as the mosquito in a swamp and equally pestiferous.”
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Doctors in Alabama and Virginia gained success in a much different way than other groups, providing a very real threat to society. The eugenics movement also battled a larger purpose; however, their solution aimed to uplift the elite and “able bodied.” This movement is particularly unique in that while it gained momentum, it aimed to significantly push back minority groups. Its major reason for success was not its ability to pass legislation, although Virginians successfully passed laws concerning eugenics. Its ability to scare people into believing eugenics was necessary not only made is successful but also strengthened its impact, although this aspect did not translate into future