Montana Women’s Suffrage: A Historical Overview
March is Women’s History Month, a time to recognize the struggles and triumphs of women who have shaped society. In Montana, the fight for equal rights, particularly the right to vote, was a long and determined effort led by remarkable women whose legacies continue to inspire.
Early Organizing and Initial Victories
The women’s suffrage movement in Montana began while it was still a territory. The Women’s Christian Temperance Union (WCTU) played a crucial role in the early organization of the movement, arriving in 1883. Montana suffragists achieved initial successes in 1887 when women were granted the right to vote in school board elections and on tax issues.
The Push for Statehood and Beyond
When Montana convened its constitutional convention in 1889, Clara and Perry McAdow invited suffragist Henry Blackwell to advocate for equal women’s suffrage before the delegates. Although the proposition didn’t pass at that time, Montana women retained their existing voting rights as the state entered the Union.
National Suffrage Organizations and Local Activism
In 1895, the National American Woman Suffrage Association (NAWSA) began organizing local groups in Montana. This led to the formation of the Montana Woman’s Suffrage Association (MWSA). Throughout the late 19th century, Montana suffragists actively organized conventions and lobbied the state legislature for full women’s suffrage.
Jeannette Rankin and the 1914 Victory
The early 20th century saw Jeannette Rankin emerge as a prominent leader in the Montana suffrage movement. By January 1913, a women’s suffrage bill had passed the Montana Legislature and was submitted to voters as a referendum. Suffragists launched a comprehensive campaign, traveling across Montana to deliver speeches and host rallies. They distributed thousands of letters, pamphlets, and journals, and established booths at the Montana State Fair to garner support.
On November 3, 1914, Montana men voted 53 to 47 percent in favor of granting women the right to vote. Montana, along with Nevada, became one of the first states in the West to extend voting rights to non-Native women. The official results showed 41,302 votes in favor and 37,588 against the amendment.
Continued Fight for Suffrage and Ratification
Following the 1914 victory, Montana continued to advocate for women’s suffrage on a national level. When the 19th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution was passed, Montana ratified it on August 2, 1919, formally guaranteeing women the right to vote nationwide.
The Ongoing Struggle for Universal Suffrage
Despite these advancements, the fight for universal suffrage wasn’t complete. Native American women were excluded from voting rights until the passage of the Indian Citizenship Act in 1924.
Key Figures in Montana’s Suffrage Movement
- Caroline Lockhart: A journalist who broke barriers in a male-dominated field and shaped public opinion.
- Hazel Hunkins: A Billings native who fought for women’s suffrage not only in Montana but also nationally and internationally.
- Susie Yellowtail: A trailblazer in healthcare and advocacy for Indigenous communities.
Legacy and Continued Importance
The achievements of these women and countless others laid the foundation for greater equality and representation in Montana. Their dedication and perseverance serve as a reminder of the importance of continued advocacy for social justice and the enduring power of women’s voices.