Women and Progressives

Progressive Era

A time in American history during which middle-class women entered the workforce, pursued higher education, and engaged in social reform movements.

New Woman

A term describing educated, modern women who pursued interests outside their homes, often linked to social reform and activism.

Jane Addams

An influential figure during the Progressive Era who founded Hull House and became a pioneer in social work.

NACW

Formed by African American women to address social issues and advocate for women's rights and suffrage. Founded by Mary Church Terrell.

Woman suffrage

The movement aimed at granting women the right to vote, which became a central part of the American women's rights movement.

National American Woman Suffrage Association (NAWSA)

An organization formed in 1890 by the joining of two suffrage groups, dedicated to winning women's voting rights.

Alice Paul

A prominent suffragist who founded the National Woman's Party in 1916, seeking greater equality and advocating for women's suffrage.

Nineteenth Amendment

The constitutional amendment that granted women the right to vote in the United States, ratified in 1920.

Children's Bureau

An organization created under pressure from women reformers to oversee the welfare of children and improve child labor laws.

Temperance

The movement aimed at curbing alcohol consumption, prominently led by women's organizations like the WCTU.

Eighteenth Amendment

A constitutional amendment that prohibited the manufacture, sale, and transportation of alcohol in the U.S., ratified in 1919.