What was a major reason women won the right to vote in 1918?

Question

A. a drastic economic depression after World War I
B. women's entrance into the workforce during World War I
C. violent activism on the part of suffragettes
D. the election of Britain's first female prime minister

Answer 1

(Suggestion -- though the 1918 date --and choice D-- does show that you have the UK, not the US in mind, it would be clearer to have said so in the question. The US change came only slightly later, in 1920.)

Yes, as most have said, the key was what women did in the workforce during WWI.

In fact, it may be argued that when World War I broke out the women's suffrage movement was moving BACKWARD. At least the militant branch or "suffragettes" (vs. the suffragists who stuck with constitutional means) apparently were LOSING support among more liberal representatives. But ironically it appears their backing away from these efforts in order to support the war effort that gained them what they had been fighting for. . .WITHOUT fighting.

(Note to wayfaroutthere -- this more radical group in Britain DID use violent and destructive means. Perhaps you are thinking of the American suffragettes who did not follow their example.)

Some interesting links that contrast the militant suffragettes and the suffragists, as well as the role of work vs. (or in addition to) political activity/agitation --

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Women%27s_suffrage#United_Kingdom
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Women%27s_suffrage_in_the_United_Kingdom#The_suffragette
http://www.bl.uk/learning/histcitizen/21cc/struggle/suffragettes1/suffragettes.html
http://www.northallertoncoll.org.uk/history/Suffrage%20website%202/Suffragists%20vs.%20Suffragettes.htm
http://coolbeanscool.blogspot.com/2003/09/suffragists-vs-suffragettes.html
http://www.learningcurve.gov.uk/britain1906to1918/g4/gallery4.htm

Answer 2

I'd have to go with B--women in the workforce. Activism on the part of suffragettes was a big part of it as well, but to my knowledge most of it was non-violent. The depression after WWI was minor (the great depression started in 1929), and Britain's first female prime minister was elected years later.

Answer 3

1

Answer 4

B .. though I would add previous involvement in national programs for change, like prohibition and abolition. These set up networks of organization and communcation for women.

Answer 5

I guess B, but realize they soon were looked down on if they did anything other than be a housewife (the 50s).

Answer 6

they is no one reason !
all of the above ,they all contributed to woman getting the vote
hope its helpfull:)

Answer 7

E. Witholding of sex.

Answer 8

Do your own homework, lazy!

Answer 9

B