-
Essay / How Far Women's Rights Have Come - 1071
Gender equality in the United States, as well as many other parts of the world, has historically been lacking from a women's perspective. The idea that men are simply better and more deserving has spread like wildfire, this idea still has not been entirely diminished. (sv,sv) With hard work and determination, women faced all odds and united to prove their ability to be equal to men in the United States. Women's rights from then to now have fluctuated enormously. Everything we have gained; everything we aspire to gain; show what we are capable of.(sv;sv;sv)In 1769, the colonies took advantage of the English system of property for married women; meaning women cannot own property in their own name or maintain their own income. By 1900, all states will have adopted legislation modeled on New York's Married Women's Property Act, which granted women the right to keep their own wages and own property in their own names. In 1868, the National Labor Union advocated for equal pay for equal work, the concept that a woman should be paid the same as a man for doing the same, or equivalent, work, with the same qualifications. (Timeline of Women's Rights) As time continues, the demand for equality grows stronger and women believe they can push for more. In 1869, the Territory of Wyoming passed the nation's first law, granting the right to vote to women over the age of 21. Between 1890 and 1994, women in 96 percent of all nation states gained the right to vote and run for public office. (Francisco) A federal law was adopted in 1872, according to which federal employees received equal pay for equal work. Additionally, in 1872, Victoria Chaflin Woodhull was the first attack on religious freedom. They were talking about the freedom of business owners, not the freedom of their employees (Gzedit). Women have proven what they are capable of and shown that they have what it takes to be independent and make a difference in the world. Without the help of any man, we women will continue to strive to do and be our best. Women's rights from then to now have fluctuated enormously. The only thing left to do now is to keep moving forward. Works Cited Cayton Andrew, et al. “The American Way to the Present.” New Jersey: Pearson Education, 2005. Print. Flanders, Laura. “Demanding women”. Nation 296.7 (2013):20. MasterFILEPremire. Internet. February 20, 2014.Francisco O. Ramirez. American Sociological Review, 1997, vol 62.Czedit. "Choice; Women's Rights. Charleston Gazette. February 25, 2014, February 25: 4A.