What Made Suffrage Successful?

In addition, female activists were significant in the movement of women's political rights. Throughout the time leading up to 1916, many women took on leadership roles. Notably, Dr. Amelia Yeomans was one of the first to speak out against female suffrage. She was involved in the Woman’s Christian Temperance Union and later formed the Manitoba Equal Suffrage Club in 1894. The new club that was formed allowed men to join as well. Many feminists at the time believed that all men did not want women to gain equality. Dr. Yeoman encouraged men as well as women to be apart of the fight for women's Suffrage. Nellie McClung also played an essential role in obtaining the right to vote. Strongly opinionated and very ambitious, she stood up for her beliefs. In 1914, Nellie McClung threatened Premier of Manitoba, Rodmond Roblin saying “I believe we’ll get you yet.” The following night a mock parliament trial which attained national attention was held. McClung played the role of Premier in this trial where men were being denied the right to vote rather than women. This event gained national attention and forced many to contemplate the ideas of activists for female suffrage. 
What Made Suffrage Successful?

Julia Abundo

Grade 11

Holy Heart of Mary High School
St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador

Women's right to vote is a fundamental milestone in the feminist movement and I was eager to look more into how this right was established. 

Related Essays

  • A Pivotal Achievement in a Long­-Running Struggle

    A Pivotal Achievement in a Long­-Running Struggle

    Lily de Loë

    Guelph, Ontario

    I enjoy reading 19th and 20th century literature; I always find the societal differences between present day and those eras to be striking.

  • Let The Stream Run Fast

    Let The Stream Run Fast

    Amanda Luu

    Surrey, British Columbia

    I was drawn to this question because, as a young woman, I felt that it was important to educate myself about the history of women's rights

 
View all essays