Rebecca Latimer Felton becomes first female Senator

November 21st, 1922

November 21st, 1922

Rebecca Latimer Felton becomes first female Senator
How Long Ago?

102 years, 3 months, 22 days ago

Location

Washington, D.C., United States

Category

Politics & Government

People
  • Rebecca Latimer Felton
  • William J. Harris
Links & References
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Rebecca Latimer Felton becomes first female Senator

Rebecca Latimer Felton took the oath of office as a United States Senator, marking a significant milestone in American political history. Representing Georgia, she served briefly and was the first woman to hold such an office. Appointed to fill a vacancy, Felton’s tenure lasted just 24 hours, yet her presence in the Senate symbolized the slow progress of women in politics and the increasing empowerment of women during the early 20th century as they began to exercise their rights more fully in a male-dominated political landscape.

First woman to serve in the U.S. Senate.

Served only 24 hours in office.

Advocate for women's suffrage and social reform.

Her appointment symbolized women's political progress.

What Happened?

Rebecca Latimer Felton was appointed to the Senate when the seat became vacant after the death of Senator William J. Harris. Though her Senate career was extremely brief, lasting only from November 21 to November 22, 1922, her appointment was groundbreaking. Felton was an ardent advocate for women's suffrage, temperance, and social reform. Her advocacy work laid the groundwork for her political career, and she had long been a prominent figure in Georgia’s political and social issues. Despite the short-lived nature of her service, her appointment represented an important step towards gender equality in U.S. politics. Felton took the oath of office in a period when women's roles in society were evolving, with the 19th Amendment, granting women the right to vote, having been ratified just two years earlier in 1920. Felton’s appointment reflected the changes happening across the nation, as more women began to assert their influence in both social and political spheres. 

Throughout her life, Felton was noted not just for her political accomplishments but also as a leader in various social causes, including advocating for the better treatment of African Americans and promoting education. Her brief Senate tenure, though more symbolic, sparked conversations about women's representation and rights and illustrated the beginning of a significant shift in the political landscape of the United States.

Why Does it Matter?

Rebecca Latimer Felton's appointment is interesting as it marked a turning point for women in U.S. politics. Although her term was short, it dispelled the notion that women could not participate in the highest levels of government. The significance of her role as the first female senator opened doors for future generations of women to pursue political careers, ultimately leading to increased representation in Congress. Her appointment is a key symbol of the larger movements advocating for women's rights and equality during the 20th century.

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