Women's Roles in Society

450 Words2 Pages
Between 1800 and 1860 the role and place of women in American society changed slightly. The roles of women changed socially, economically, and politically. Before this time period, women had very little rights. For example, they could not hold office or vote. It was common for women to stay at home to raise the children and do household chores until this antebellum era emerged. Primarily, women’s roles changed socially in the antebellum era. Many women became angered towards the fact that they barely had any rights. Women were denied suffrage and their education. Women wanted the right to an education. This is supported in document A. Document A states “…refined in intellect, that her taste and judgment will be respected….” This is explaining that women would be more respected if they had the ability to obtain an education. During this time period, women also started many reforms. For example, Dorthea Dix argued that mentally ill people should not be kept in prisons with criminals because they can be helped. Document C discusses how women should be equal to men. The document is modeled after the Declaration of Independence. Moreover, during the time period of 1800-1860, the roles of women changed slightly economically also. Prior to this period, women did not receive equal pay to that of men when working. As soon as women were married they lost many of the rights and money. Women mostly worked as teachers or in textile factories. Document D discusses the life of a woman slave. Maria Perkins is explaining to her husband that she is going to be bought and sold. She says that women are 2nd class but slave women are even worse. In the antebellum era, roles of women continued to change politically. Women were not able to vote. The Seneca Falls convention was the first women’s write convention. Susan B Anthony and Lucretia Mott were the organizers. They created the
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