Congress Approves Nineteenth Amendment for Women

June 4th, 1919

June 4th, 1919

Congress Approves Nineteenth Amendment for Women
How Long Ago?

105 years, 9 months, 11 days ago

Location

Washington, D.C., USA

Category

Social Movements & Civil Rights

People
  • Carrie Chapman Catt
  • Alice Paul
  • Susan B. Anthony
  • Ida B. Wells
  • Lucretia Mott
Links & References
Tags

Congress Approves Nineteenth Amendment for Women

The U.S. Congress approved the Nineteenth Amendment, ensuring women's right to vote and forwarding it to the states for ratification. This significant legislative step followed decades of advocacy by suffragists, who campaigned for equality in voting rights. The amendment aimed to eliminate gender-based voting discrimination and was a crucial milestone in the women's suffrage movement. It rallied support from various women's organizations and individuals who pushed for social justice and equality in American society.

Women campaigned for suffrage for decades.

The amendment was approved by Congress in 1919.

It requires ratification from 36 states to become law.

Key activists played crucial roles in advocacy efforts.

What Happened?

The Nineteenth Amendment to the United States Constitution sought to guarantee women the right to vote and marked a monumental step in the American women's suffrage movement. After decades of activism and organized efforts by suffragists, Congress, in June 1919, finally passed the amendment, which was a result of persistent campaigns by numerous activists and women's organizations. These groups, including the National American Woman Suffrage Association led by leaders such as Carrie Chapman Catt and the National Woman's Party led by Alice Paul, mobilized grassroots support and lobbied lawmakers to recognize women's voting rights as a fundamental principle of democracy.

The amendment stated, "The right of citizens of the United States to vote shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or by any State on account of sex." Once approved by Congress, the amendment was sent to the state legislatures for ratification. To become law, it required the approval of three-fourths of the states. This strategic legislative move was followed by intense political battles at the state level, engaging citizens in conversations about gender equality and the role of women in society.

The struggle for women's suffrage encompassed various social struggles, including civil rights, labor rights, and broader movements for social reform. Women organized protests, parades, and demonstrations, challenging public opinion against the established norms of gender roles. With approval from Congress, the Nineteenth Amendment symbolized not only an essential shift towards gender equality in politics but also the culmination of a tireless movement that triumphed against opposition and historical prejudice. The ongoing advocacy for women's rights continued past ratification, asserting the importance of political engagement for women across the nation.

Why Does it Matter?

The approval of the Nineteenth Amendment is significant as it reflects a pivotal transformation in American society, promoting the principles of equality and democracy. It empowered millions of women who had fought relentlessly for the right to vote, thereby changing the electoral landscape. The amendment is noteworthy not just for its immediate effects but also as a foundation for subsequent advances in women's rights, influencing future generations of activists and legislative changes.

Discover More Historic Events from June 4th

Accidents & Tragedies

Cessna Citation V Crash in Virginia

June 4th, 2023 1 years ago

A Cessna Citation V aircraft crashed into Mine Bank Mountain in Augusta County, Virginia, resulting in the deaths of four individuals aboard. The accident occurred in a remote area, and emergency responders were quickly dispatched to the scene. Initial investigations indicated possible mechanical failure or pilot error as potential causes of the crash. Eyewitnesses reported seeing the aircraft flying erratically before it went down in the mountainous terrain.

Continue Reading
Social Movements & Civil Rights

Rising Dissent: Protests Against Duda Government

June 4th, 2023 1 years ago

Mass protests erupted in several Polish cities against President Andrzej Duda's government, fueled by discontent over judicial reforms and civil rights issues. Demonstrators gathered in Warsaw, Krakow, and Gdansk, showcasing a diverse coalition of citizens, including students, activists, and opposition party members. The protests aimed to challenge recent policies perceived as undermining democracy and the rule of law. As tensions rose, the demonstrators called for accountability and respect for constitutional principles, signaling a significant moment in Poland's political landscape.

Continue Reading
Space Exploration

SpaceX's Falcon 9 Rocket Launches Successfully

June 4th, 2010 14 years ago

The Falcon 9 rocket, developed by SpaceX, successfully launched from Cape Canaveral Air Force Station Space Launch Complex 40, marking its first flight. The rocket was designed to deliver payloads to orbital destinations and underpinned SpaceX's ambitions in commercial spaceflight. This inaugural launch showcased significant advancements in aerospace technology and aimed to demonstrate the viability of the Falcon 9 for future missions. The flight marked a pivotal moment for private space exploration.

Continue Reading
Social Movements & Civil Rights

Foundation of the Civic Forum in Transylvania

June 4th, 2005 19 years ago

The Civic Forum of Romanians in Covasna, Harghita, and Mureș was founded to represent and advocate for the Romanian community in the areas primarily inhabited by ethnic Hungarians. This important gathering was characterized by leaders aiming to address local issues and foster a sense of unity within the Romanian population in Transylvania. The forum reflects the evolving dynamics within the region following the political transformations in Eastern Europe.

Continue Reading
Crime & Law

Terry Nichols Sentenced in Oklahoma City Case

June 4th, 1998 26 years ago

Terry Nichols was sentenced to life in prison for his involvement in the Oklahoma City bombing, which took place on April 19, 1995. The bombing killed 168 people and was one of the deadliest acts of domestic terrorism in the United States. Nichols, along with Timothy McVeigh, was convicted for orchestrating the attack against the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building in Oklahoma City. The harsh sentencing reflected the severity of the crime and served as a moment of closure for many victims' families.

Continue Reading
Space Exploration

Ariane 5 Rocket Fails Shortly After Launch

June 4th, 1996 28 years ago

The first flight of the Ariane 5 rocket, a European space launch vehicle manufactured by Arianespace, was conducted as part of a Cluster mission, which aimed to study the Earth's magnetosphere. Unfortunately, just 37 seconds post-launch, the rocket exploded in a catastrophic failure. This incident revealed critical software issues and led to significant changes in the European space program's approach to satellite launches and vehicle design.

Continue Reading