Women and Reform

Women in higher classes had greater restrictions on them.
Wives were property to their husbands. They could not own property, vote, or have many job opportunities.
Women were responsible for raising children, both male and female.
Women were allowed access to education so they could educate their sons.
Women were responsible for providing a man a clean home and food
They also were expected to provide non-market values, such as love and friendship
The “Cult of Domesticity” was formed. The followers believed that women should not do any work and should be housewives
Women were described as “Man’s bestfriend” and were expected to take care of them no matter the circumstance.
Some women worked in factories and others worked as housemaids
Men would spend time in pubs and drink excessive alcohol
Women wanted the right to vote so they could vote against alcohol. (Temperance Movement)
Women had a large role in the abolitionist movement
The book "Uncle Tom's Cabin" gave a lot of people the idea that African Americans should also be treated as humans
The Seneca Fall Convetion was hosted to help gain rights for women. They made the Decleration of Sentiments which modeled the Declaration of Independence.
Women began dressing in “male clothing” and wearing pants