The Axelson Papers document the family life and professional careers of several members of the McDougal and Axelson families. Materials relating to Mary McDougal Axelson document her life as a political activist and writer. A leader and organizer of political, literary, and women's groups, Axelson participated in the women's club movement, women's suffrage activities, democratic party politics, health reform, and the world peace campaign. She gained a national and international reputation for her work "Life Begins" which appeared in the form of a novel, play and film. Files also document the accomplishments of family members including her parents, Daniel Archibald and Myrtle McDougal, her sister Violet, husband Ivar Axelson and daughter Mary Ivonne Axelson.
