Women's Rights Movement Thesis

During the time between the late 1800s to the early 1900s, America witnessed one of the greatest cultural and economic changes ever seen by the country. During this time, there was a huge shift from rural, agricultural living to urban, industrial living. Waves of new immigrants poured into the country, bringing with them numerous types of new cultures and challenges to overcome. Women began experiencing opportunities never before offered, even if it did come with a price. And finally, everyone of this time sought one thing: to make as much money as possible. Unfortunately, however, there were always obstacles to overcome from poor housing to big name businesses with reigning monopolies. All of these events combined made up a time in America …show more content…
In fact, there were some benefits that could be found within the struggle. One of the biggest of these benefits was the new opportunities available to women. Prior to the Industrial Revolution, women were limited to roles within the home, such as childrearing. After the Industrial Revolution began, and after many people found it impossible to live off of one income, many women went to work alongside their husbands or fathers in order to help provide for the family. While the work was hard, it was the beginning of women gaining more freedom and rights outside of the home. It would eventually, many decades later, transform into one of the greatest social movements ever in America, known as the Women’s Rights Movement. Not to mention, the hard work provided by both men and women during this time is what lead to America becoming the industrial and technological capitol of the world, a feat that has yet to be beaten. Therefore, it can be argued that the sacrifices made early in the time of the Industrial Revolution, and what would be considered a consequence because of how people were treated, eventually turned into a benefit because of the impact it had on the country (and the world) as a …show more content…
In fact, according to Brinkley, Progressives believed that “the “natural laws” of the marketplace, and the doctrines of laissez faire and Social Darwinism that celebrated those laws, was not sufficient” (pg. 569). Instead, the Progressive Movement aimed to establish a new marketplace, one that took away monopolies and improved the social conditions of the working class. It was a successful movement, as Progressives were able to improve upon housing for the working class as well as social reform in the workplace by means of labor unions. The Progressive Movement was especially successful in regards to women’s rights, as the Women’s Rights Movement essentially started with the Progressive