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Women's Suffrage Movement — Reading Comprehension

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HSS 5.9.2
RI.4.4

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This reading passage explores the Women's Suffrage Movement, a key period in U.S. history during the Progressive Era. Students will learn about the decades-long struggle to win women the right to vote, the methods used by suffragettes, and the impact of their victory. The passage highlights important figures such as Susan B. Anthony and Elizabeth Cady Stanton, and details how marches, speeches, and protests led to the passage of the 19th Amendment. It is written in accessible language and includes a glossary, comprehension questions, writing prompts, and graphic organizers. The passage is aligned with standards HSS 5.9.2 and RI.4.4. It also includes a Spanish translation and read aloud audio, making it ideal for diverse classrooms. Teachers and students will gain a deeper understanding of voting rights, equality, and the importance of civic engagement through this comprehensive lesson.

CONTENT PREVIEW

Flier for window display- "A Woman Living Here Has Registered to Vote Thereby Assuming Responsibility of Citizenship," 1920.jpg/Wikimedia Commons

The Women's Suffrage Movement was a long struggle to win women the right to vote in the United States. In the early 1800s, women could not vote in elections. Only men were allowed to have a say in government decisions. Many women believed this was not fair and wanted equal rights.

In 1848, a group of women and men held a meeting called the Seneca Falls Convention in New York. There, leaders like Elizabeth Cady Stanton and Lucretia Mott spoke out for women's rights. They wrote a document called the Declaration of Sentiments, which demanded voting rights for women. This meeting started the Women's Suffrage Movement.

For the next 72 years, women and their supporters worked hard for change. They organized marches, gave speeches, wrote letters to lawmakers, and held protests. Some women, called suffragettes, even went to jail for their actions. One famous leader, Susan B. Anthony, was arrested for trying to vote in 1872. She spent her life fighting for equality.

The fight was not easy. Many people did not agree that women should vote. Suffragettes faced angry crowds and harsh treatment. Still, they did not give up. In the early 1900s, groups like the National American Woman Suffrage Association and the National Woman's Party used parades and hunger strikes to get attention.

Finally, their hard work paid off. In 1920, the United States passed the 19th Amendment to the Constitution. This law gave women the right to vote. Women across the country celebrated. They had changed history by standing together and never giving up.

The Women's Suffrage Movement showed the power of bravery, teamwork, and hope. It helped make the United States a more fair and equal place for everyone.

Interesting Fact: The word "suffrage" means the right to vote in political elections. It does not mean suffering.

What year did Seneca Falls Convention happen?

1848192018721800

Who was arrested for voting in 1872?

Susan B. AnthonyLucretia MottElizabeth Cady StantonAlice Paul

What did the 19th Amendment do?

Gave women the right to voteEnded slaveryStarted protestsCreated new states

Why did suffragettes hold marches?

To get voting rightsTo start a warTo stop men votingTo change the flag

How did the movement show bravery?

Women went to jailWomen stopped readingMen helped themThey bought new clothes

What was the main goal of suffragettes?