Complex sentence: The "carpet bag" was not invented as a pocketbook or handbag for women--but rather, the day's version of our modern "suitcase" that operated as a reliable traveling companion and carrier of a person's possessions.
Split into simpler sentences: The "carpet bag" was not invented as a pocketbook or handbag for women. Rather, it was the day's version of our modern "suitcase" that operated as a reliable traveling companion and carrier of a person's possessions.