Women's Rights in the U.S.

The Declaration of Independence in 1776 said that "all men are created equal" but it made no mention of women. Early women's rights activists concentrated on obtaining the right to vote. More recently, women have made great strides in politics, education, and the workplace.

1776

Early Voters

Women are allowed to vote in New Jersey because the state's constitution uses the term "inhabitants" and doesn't mention sex. In 1807, that right is rescinded by the legislature.

1848

Seneca Falls

Elizabeth Cady Stanton is among the organizers of the first women's rights convention, in Seneca Falls, New York. It calls for women's suffrage.

1916

U.S. Congress

Jeannette Rankin of Montana becomes the first woman elected to the House of Representatives. In 1932, Hattie Caraway of Arkansas is the first woman elected to the Senate.

1920

Suffrage

The 19th Amendment, giving women the right to vote, takes effect when Tennessee becomes the 36th state-of 48-to ratify it. (Hawaii and Alaska were not yet U.S. states.)

1941-45

'Rosie the Riveter'

Eight million women take jobs vacated by men fighting in World War II--the first time women enter the workforce on such a large scale. Many lose their jobs after the war ends.

1972

E.R.A.

Congress passes the Equal Rights Amendment, which guarantees equal treatment for women under the law. But the constitutional amendment fails to win ratification by the necessary 38 states within 10 years.

1981

Supreme Court

Sandra Day O'Connor of Arizona becomes the first woman on the Supreme Court after her appointment by President Ronald Reagan. Today, three women sit on the High Court.

2007

First Speaker

Congresswoman Nancy Pelosi of California is the first woman to serve as Speaker of the House...