A pivotal figure in the American women’s suffrage movement, she strategized and led the National American Woman Suffrage Association (NAWSA) to victory, ultimately securing the passage of the 19th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution in 1920. Her leadership focused on meticulous organization, lobbying efforts at both the state and federal levels, and carefully planned campaigns to garner public support for women’s right to vote. For instance, she developed the “Winning Plan,” a strategy that coordinated efforts across different states with tailored approaches to maximize success.
Her work is significant for APUSH (Advanced Placement United States History) students because it illustrates the culmination of decades of activism dedicated to achieving women’s suffrage. Her pragmatism and political acumen transformed the suffrage movement from a somewhat fragmented effort into a highly effective, unified force. She understood the importance of political maneuvering and public relations, demonstrating a sophisticated understanding of the American political landscape. This illustrates a key turning point in American history and the ongoing struggle for civil rights.
