Women’s Suffrage in the UK
Every year on 8 March, International Women’s Day celebrates the economic, cultural, political, and social achievements of women while also recognizing the ongoing fight for gender equality. It took 100 years for women in the UK to win the right to vote after relentless campaigning and perseverance.
A Long and Challenging Journey
Women – known as suffragettes – campaigned tirelessly for Parliament to grant them suffrage despite repeated rejections. In 1918, the Representation of the People Act was passed, granting limited voting rights to some women over 30. It wasn't until 1928 that all women over 21 gained the right to vote after decades of struggle.
Opposition and Persistence
The fight for women's suffrage faced opposition from male politicians and the public. The National League for Opposing Women’s Suffrage had thousands of members and gathered petitions against votes for women. Despite the setbacks, suffragettes persevered, much like campaigners in today's political landscape.
The Power of Persistence
Just as Brexit campaigners faced defeats before their victory, women's suffrage advocates persisted through losses until they achieved success. The path to voting rights was marked by rejection, persistence, and eventual triumph, showcasing the importance of continuous advocacy in a democracy.
Key Milestones in the Fight for Women’s Voting Rights
From the first petition for women’s suffrage in 1832 to the ultimate sacrifice made by Emily Wilding Davison in 1913, the journey towards women’s voting rights in the UK was a long and challenging process. Despite setbacks and obstacles, women refused to accept defeat and continued their fight until they secured equal voting rights in 1928.
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By: Jon Danzig
Title: International Women’s Day: A Reminder of the Long Fight for Voting Rights
Sourced From: eu-rope.ideasoneurope.eu/2025/03/07/the-suffragettes-never-gave-up-nor-will-rejoiners/
Published Date: Fri, 07 Mar 2025 08:27:03 +0000
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