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Women’s Suffrage in the Progressive Era | Unladylike2020

Jeannette Rankin: What problems led to the demand for reforms?

 

“I saw that if we were to have decent laws for children, sanitary jails, safe food supplies, women would have to vote.”

--Jeannette Rankin

Jeanette Rankin was the first woman in United States history elected to the U.S. Congress, representing the state of Montana in the U.S. House of Representatives. As a suffragist and life-long pacifist, Rankin fought tirelessly for women’s right to vote, and voted against United States entry into WWI and WWII. 

 

WATCH THIS!

Watch the video about Jeanette Rankin and learn about what motivated her to become politically active and fight for the right to vote. Then answer the questions in the space provided.

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Response Questions

  • When Rankin was studying in New York City, what was she “struck by” while there? What conclusion did she come to and what were her next steps?
  • When did women get the right to vote in Montana vs. nationally? In how many other states did women win the vote ahead of the national amendment?
  • Many men and women opposed women’s suffrage. Describe some of the reasons for their opposition, according to the video.
  • What was Rankin not interested in pursuing when it came to the 19th Amendment? Who did she leave out? Does this surprise you?