House Rejects Women's Voting Rights Amendment

January 12th, 1915

January 12th, 1915

House Rejects Women's Voting Rights Amendment
How Long Ago?

110 years, 2 months, 3 days ago

Location

Washington, D.C., United States

Category

Social Movements & Civil Rights

People
  • Carrie Chapman Catt
  • Alice Paul
  • Susan B. Anthony
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House Rejects Women's Voting Rights Amendment

The United States House of Representatives voted on a proposed constitutional amendment aimed at granting women the right to vote. Despite the tireless efforts of suffragists and supporters, the proposal was rejected. The National American Woman Suffrage Association (NAWSA) had mobilized extensive campaigns to gain support for the amendment, which was viewed as a pivotal step toward gender equality. The rejection highlighted the deep divisions in American society over women's suffrage, sparking protests and debates across various states and communities.

House voted on women's suffrage amendment

Suffragists campaigned for federal voting rights

Rejection highlighted societal divisions on suffrage

Event spurred further activism for women's rights

What Happened?

The proposed constitutional amendment to grant women the right to vote was a significant effort in the early 20th century women's suffrage movement. Advocates, including leaders from organizations like the National American Woman Suffrage Association, had worked diligently to gain enough support for the amendment in Congress. On January 12, 1915, the House of Representatives conducted a vote that ultimately resulted in a rejection of the proposal. This vote was a reflection of the prevailing attitudes toward women's roles in society, which were heavily influenced by traditional norms and the political landscape of the time. The amendment had been introduced in response to growing public support for women's suffrage across various states, particularly as more women began to actively participate in local and state elections. However, this widespread support did not translate into congressional backing.This failure to pass the amendment was met with disappointment by suffragists who had hoped for a federal solution to voting rights. Activists responded to the setback with renewed vigor, organizing protests and rallies to raise awareness and push for change at both state and federal levels. The unwavering determination of these activists not only galvanized further action but also signified a pivotal moment in the struggle for women's rights in the United States. Over the next few years, the momentum for suffrage would continue to build, leading ultimately to the passage of the 19th Amendment in 1920, which finally granted women the right to vote across the nation. The rejection of the amendment in 1915, therefore, was both a disappointing moment and a catalyst for future advocacy efforts.

Why Does it Matter?

The rejection of the proposed constitutional amendment was a critical moment in the women's suffrage movement. It underscored the challenging political landscape women faced while advocating for equal rights. Despite the setback, the event fueled greater activism and highlighted the resilience of suffragists, ultimately contributing to the eventual success in achieving women's voting rights with the ratification of the 19th Amendment in 1920.

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