November 7, 1916
Jeannette Rankin of Montana became the first woman elected to the United States Congress.
Washington, D.C., United States | United States Congress
On November 7, 1916, Jeannette Rankin of Montana made history by becoming the first woman elected to the United States Congress. Her election was a significant milestone in the women’s suffrage movement and marked a pivotal moment in American political history.
Jeannette Rankin was born on June 11, 1880, near Missoula, Montana. She was a social worker and a prominent advocate for women’s suffrage. Her involvement in the suffrage movement was instrumental in Montana granting women the right to vote in 1914, two years before her historic election to Congress.
Rankin ran as a Republican in Montana’s at-large congressional district. Her campaign focused on progressive issues, including women’s rights, child welfare, and pacifism. Her election was groundbreaking, as it occurred four years before the 19th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution granted women the right to vote nationwide in 1920.
Rankin served two non-consecutive terms in the U.S. House of Representatives, from 1917 to 1919 and again from 1941 to 1943. During her first term, she was one of the few members of Congress to vote against the United States’ entry into World War I, reflecting her strong pacifist beliefs.
Jeannette Rankin’s election was a significant victory for the women’s suffrage movement and set a precedent for women’s participation in American politics. Her career demonstrated the potential for women to influence national policy and paved the way for future generations of female politicians.
Rankin’s legacy is remembered for her unwavering commitment to peace and social justice. Her life and career continue to inspire advocates for gender equality and political reform.
Jeannette Rankin’s election to Congress on November 7, 1916, was a landmark event in U.S. history. It highlighted the growing influence of women in politics and underscored the importance of the suffrage movement in expanding democratic participation. Her contributions to American society remain a testament to the power of perseverance and advocacy in the pursuit of equality.
Source: history.house.gov