It wasn’t until 1920 that women in the United States were able to get the right to vote. What path did they follow? The determination and fortitude of these people inspire respect, help them believe in themselves, suggest the right decision and, in the end, motivate them. It is not so long ago, but we are already beginning to forget important milestones in history.

Today no one needs to explain the meaning of the word “feminism,” which appeared in the 18th century, but only really intensified since the late 1960s. In the early 18th century the term “the weaker sex” appeared and became popular, but by the middle of that century the protest of the first feminists had matured. They took an active part in the life of society, became economically independent, some even tried to intervene in political issues. They demanded rights to education, to work, to respect in family and society.

The fateful event of first-wave feminism was the signing of the Declaration of Positions and Resolutions on the Status of Women. This happened in 1848 in the United States of America, and was a globally important decision. But by no means was America the first country where women gained the right to vote. New Zealand did so in 1893, Australia in 1902, Denmark in 1908, Germany in 1918, and the United States in 1920.

Declaration of Rights and Sentiments

1848-it is generally accepted that this is when this long struggle for American women’s suffrage began. That year a convention was held in Seneca Falls, where 300 men and women gathered to voice their grievances and draw up a plan of action. Then the Declaration of Rights and Feelings, drafted by the already mentioned Elizabeth Stanton, was signed.

The document was based on the Declaration of Independence of the United States. Elizabeth emphasized that “all men and women were created equal. Also, she was not afraid to charge men. There were 18 of them – exactly as many as the American colonists had once brought against George III.

Of course, the conference was followed by a general condemnation of suffragettes, both in society and in the press. But the women’s equality movement also had its supporters.