The position of women in the early twentieth century
I can explain why women were unable to vote at the beginning of the 20th century, despite their contributions to political movements.
The position of women in the early twentieth century
I can explain why women were unable to vote at the beginning of the 20th century, despite their contributions to political movements.
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Lesson details
Key learning points
- The franchise had been expanded in the nineteenth century but did not include women.
- Women had secured some legal rights, such as the 1882 Married Women's Property Act.
- Women had contributed to political movements throughout the nineteenth century, including abolition.
Keywords
Political - relating to government
Franchise - the ability to vote
Legal rights - entitlements that are enshrined in the law relating to government
Suffrage - the right to vote
Common misconception
Victorian women played no political role in Britain in the 19th century.
Women were increasingly politically active in Britain, for example, through their involvement in the abolitionist movement and through their participation in trade unions, despite being unable to vote.
Content guidance
- Depiction or discussion of discriminatory behaviour
- Depiction or discussion of peer pressure or bullying
- Depiction or discussion of sexual violence
Supervision
Adult supervision required
Licence
Lesson video
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Prior knowledge starter quiz
6 Questions
Q1.The year 1914 is part of which century?
Q2.Which right were women trying to win during the women's suffrage campaign?
Q3.What kind of attitudes towards women existed in Victorian Britain?
Q4.Which group held all political power in Britain until 1832?
Q5.Write the missing word, which begins with m: A collective attempt by a group of people to change government policy is called a political .
Q6.Starting with the earliest, sort the following events into chronological order.
Assessment exit quiz
6 Questions
Q1.Write the missing word: 'Franchise' means the ability to vote and another keyword meaning the same thing is .
Q2.Match each change in the British system with its correct description.
Extended the franchise to include middle class, factory owners.
Extended the franchise to 2.5 million voters.
Extended the franchise to two in three men.