Animals over Women?

The 18th century, was a golden era for societal reforms. There were major reforms movements everywhere throughout the nation to change societal norms; but one of the most notable, was the woman's reform movement. Until the 18th century, women in american society had little to no rights regarding legal issues. They could not vote, get a divorce, own property, and they couldn't take custody over their own children. In some states, it was legal for the husband to beat his wife to prevent "nagging". Though these problems were present during the majority of American history, the 18th century was when the issue was really examined by society.

A passage from "Declaration of Sentiments and Resolutions"

During the summer of 1848, the first true progression of the women's reform started. In the small city of Seneca Falls, New York, many notable womens rights reformers gathered together and created the "Declaration of Sentiments and Resolutions". This document established all of the woman's reform's goals and reforms. Due to the time period, the declaration was met with varying reaction throughout the country. Many officials denounced the declaration as a joke, as many of them thought the treatment of animals was a greater importance than the treatment of women; In the newspaper, The North Star, writes, "A discussion about animals would be regarded with far more complacency by many of what are called the good, and the wise of this land, than it would be regarding the rights of women."  Though shunned by the majority of the population, some of the population supported the Reform. In the newspaper, The National Reformer, it exclaims, "We think it the duty of every candid person to hear every proposal for the elevation of our race, and if they fall let it be for want of argument..." Though many reformers were not taken seriously, eventually during the early 19th century, the women's reform movement began to build momentum; by the end of the the century, women's rights had improved substantially. Though not really remembered today the public, the Seneca Falls Declaration, was an important stepping stone in the women's rights reform.

This video shows how women and men in society are judged differently in society.

Currently in the 20th century, society still has many issues in regard to women's rights. Though these issues aren't as severe as the 18th century, their existence shows that society still has a long way for gender equality.