Achieving the Vote for Women in Canada

Women in the provinces of Manitoba, Saskatchewan, and Alberta were the first to win the right to vote provincially in 1916. The three most important factors that contributed to this success were the actions of the suffragists, including Nellie McClung, the increasing global awareness of women’s rights, and the impact of the First World War. Nellie McClung led and took part in several events that successfully won the vote for women in Manitoba. Throughout the world, other women were also pushing for equal rights, often resorting to more militant-style protests to make their voices heard. The First World War marked another turning point for women, as many enlisted to serve as nursing sisters. Those who remained at home took over the occupations that men usually performed. As they participated and worked more in society, they felt they had a right to the same privileges as men.
Achieving the Vote for Women in Canada

Erin Fogarty

Grade 11

Louis St. Laurent
Edmonton, Alberta

As a Brit, I have always been interested in the suffragettes, and researching the movement from the Canadian point of view was fascinating.

Related Essays

  • Western Canada: Paving the Way Towards Equality

    Western Canada: Paving the Way Towards Equality

    Susan O'Brien

    Corner Brook, Newfoundland and Labrador

    I am from Eastern Canada, before writing this essay I knew little about the variation between provinces when it came to the provincial vote.

  • Don't Rock The Vote

    Don't Rock The Vote

    Brooke Harris

    Moncton, New Brunswick

    Canadian history is all very interesting to me because every little thing has led to the country and culture that we now have.

 
View all essays