Did you know it was illegal for women to wear pants in many parts of the United States well into the 20th century? What could be the reason? What happened to these women who wore pants despite the fact that it was illegal? To learn more, click on the image of The New York Times news article from 1895.
Then, read the article carefully and respond to the questions below in the space provided.
- Why is it important that the woman arrested was riding a bicycle? What context does this provide?
- Look at the line “This is an outrage which the "new woman" will not be slow to resent.” Describe what you think the author is trying to say in this passage.
- What information in the article surprised you and why?
- Why is it important to know about a woman being arrested in 1895 for wearing pants? Why does it matter