Historical Events tagged with "women's rights"

Turns out history loves a label—battles, breakthroughs, and the occasional disaster, all neatly tagged for your browsing pleasure. Because sometimes you just need every weird invention in one place.

Politics & Government

Women Granted Right to Stand for Parliament in UK

November 21st, 1918 106 years ago

The Parliament (Qualification of Women) Act 1918 was enacted, allowing women over 30 who met certain property qualifications to stand for election. This groundbreaking legislation followed decades of activism, particularly by groups such as the suffragettes and suffragists, who campaigned tirelessly for women's rights. Prime Minister David Lloyd George supported the bill, recognizing the contributions of women during World War I. The act marked a significant shift in the political landscape of the UK, paving the way for greater female participation in government.

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Social Movements & Civil Rights

Silent Sentinels Arrested for Suffrage

August 28th, 1917 107 years ago

Ten suffragists from the Silent Sentinels were arrested while picketing outside the White House to demand the right to vote for women in the United States. Their peaceful protest featured banners and signs advocating for suffrage and garnered significant attention. This act of civil disobedience highlighted the ongoing struggle for women's rights and the urgent call for change in public policy, engaging citizens and politicians alike.

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Politics & Government

Jeannette Rankin Takes Office as First Woman in Congress

March 4th, 1917 108 years ago

Jeannette Rankin, a Republican from Montana, becomes the first woman elected to the United States Congress. She took her seat in the House of Representatives after winning a special election. Rankin’s election reflects the changing attitudes toward women's participation in politics and their growing influence, particularly in the western states where women secured voting rights earlier.

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Politics & Government

Jeannette Rankin becomes first woman in Congress

November 7th, 1916 108 years ago

Jeannette Rankin, a politician and suffragist from Montana, made history by winning a seat in the U.S. House of Representatives. Her election marked a significant milestone in American politics, as she became the first woman ever to hold a congressional office in the United States. Rankin campaigned on issues such as women's rights and pacifism, gaining widespread support among voters. Her victory was celebrated by women's groups nationwide as a triumph for the suffrage movement, reflecting the changing social landscape of the time.

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Social Movements & Civil Rights

Opening of First U.S. Family Planning Clinic

October 16th, 1916 108 years ago

Margaret Sanger opened the first family planning clinic in the United States in Brooklyn, New York. This clinic aimed to provide women with access to birth control methods and education about reproductive health. The clinic marked a significant step in advocating for women's rights in healthcare and challenged existing societal norms around family planning.

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Social Movements & Civil Rights

Denmark Grants Women the Right to Vote

June 5th, 1915 109 years ago

The Danish Parliament amended the constitution to grant women the right to vote and stand for election in parliamentary and municipal elections. This significant reform was the culmination of decades of campaigning by women's rights activists in Denmark, influenced by similar movements across Europe. It marked a pivotal change in Danish society, reinforcing the principles of democracy and gender equality. The law allowed women to fully participate in the political process, impacting legislation and governance.

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Social Movements & Civil Rights

Emily Davison Trampled at The Derby

June 4th, 1913 111 years ago

Emily Davison, a prominent British suffragette, made a bold statement during the Derby by running onto the racetrack in front of King George V's horse, Anmer. This unexpected act was in protest of the lack of voting rights for women. Davidson was tragically trampled by the horse and sustained severe injuries, resulting in her never regaining consciousness. She succumbed to her injuries four days after the incident, leaving a profound impact on the suffragette movement in the United Kingdom.

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Crime & Law

Congress Passes Mann Act Against Immoral Transport

June 25th, 1910 114 years ago

The United States Congress enacted the Mann Act, which made it illegal to transport women or girls across state lines for immoral purposes. This was part of a broader progressive effort to combat what was seen as social decay in the early 20th century. Passed under the leadership of Congressman James Mann, the legislation aimed to protect women from exploitation and trafficking. However, the vague language within the act led to instances of selective prosecution over the years, affecting numerous individuals across different states.

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Arts & Culture

Selma Lagerlöf wins Nobel Prize in Literature

December 10th, 1909 115 years ago

Selma Lagerlöf became the first female laureate of the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1909. Recognized for her literary achievements, particularly her unique storytelling and rich narratives, Lagerlöf's works frequently drew upon Swedish folklore and landscapes. Her novel, 'Gösta Berling's Saga,' was a significant factor in her selection, showcasing her talent for blending myth with reality. The announcement marked a groundbreaking moment in history, as it paved the way for future generations of female writers.

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