Document Type

Research Paper

Publication Date

Spring 2009

Abstract

Looking back upon the late nineteenth United States women’s movement, names such as those of pioneers Susan B. Anthony and Elizabeth Cady Stanton often come to mind. Nonetheless, this movement was not a united organization. There were many splinters and factions within the women’s movement that held opposing ideologies, not just on suffrage but on social issues such as temperance, polygamy, and politics. Belva Lockwood was one such pioneer. Her experience in education and the law made her a valuable as a contributor within Anthony and Stanton’s organization; however today, her name seems to be lost among the more well known suffragists. Lockwood was the first women to practice law before the United States Supreme Court. She was the first women to run a full campaign for President of the United States in 1884. Ironically, although historically significant, Belva Lockwood’s bold decision to run for President cost her the respect of many members in the suffrage movement, resulting in a loss of prominence in the major suffrage organizations. This essay will examine Lockwood’s efforts to practice law, participation in the women’s movement, two candidacies for president of the United States, and the legacy of her accomplishments.

Comments

2009 Undergraduate Research Award Winner in the 3000-4000 level category.

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