timeline

  • 1848

    The first women's rights convention is held in Seneca Falls, New York. After 2 days of discussion and debate, 68 women and 32 men sign a Declaration of Sentiments, which outlines grievances and sets the agenda for the women's rights movement. A set of 12 resolutions is adopted calling for equal treatment of women and men under the law and voting rights for women.
  • 1850

    The first National Women's Rights Convention takes place in Worcester, Mass., attracting more than 1,000 participants. National conventions are held yearly (except for 1857) through 1860.
  • 1869

    Susan B. Anthony and Elizabeth Cady Stanton form the National Woman Suffrage Association. The primary goal of the organization is to achieve voting rights for women by means of a Congressional amendment to the Constitution
  • 1869

    Lucy Stone, Henry Blackwell, and others form the American Woman Suffrage Association. This group focuses exclusively on gaining voting rights for women through amendments to individual state constitutions
  • 1869

    The territory of Wyoming passes the first women's suffrage law. The following year, women begin serving on juries in the territory
  • 1890

    The National Women Suffrage Association and the American Women Suffrage Association merge to form the National American Woman Suffrage Association (NAWSA)
  • 1893

    Colorado is the first state to adopt an amendment granting women the right to vote
  • 1896

    The National Association of Colored Women is formed, bringing together more than 100 black women's clubs.
  • 1903

    The National Women's Trade Union League (WTUL) is established to advocate for improved wages and working conditions for women
  • 1913

    Alice Paul and Lucy Burns form the Congressional Union to work toward the passage of a federal amendment to give women the vote. The group is later renamed the National Women's Party. Members picket the White House and practice other forms of civil disobedience.