Carrie Chapman Catt

Definition

Carrie Chapman Catt was a prominent American suffragist and women's rights advocate who played a key role in the women's suffrage movement in the early 20th century. She is best known for her leadership of the National American Woman Suffrage Association (NAWSA) and her innovative strategies that helped secure the passage of the 19th Amendment, which granted women the right to vote. Catt's dedication to activism and her organizational skills made her a pivotal figure in advancing women's rights in the United States.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Carrie Chapman Catt was instrumental in developing the 'Winning Plan,' a strategy that combined state-level campaigns with a push for a federal amendment to secure women's voting rights.
2. Catt served as president of NAWSA twice, from 1900 to 1904 and again from 1915 to 1920, during which she revitalized the organization and expanded its membership.
3. She founded the League of Women Voters in 1920 after the passage of the 19th Amendment, aiming to educate voters and promote civic engagement among women.
4. Catt was known for her ability to unite different factions within the suffrage movement, bridging gaps between more radical activists and those who preferred a more conservative approach.
5. In addition to her work in suffrage, Catt was an advocate for international peace and founded organizations aimed at promoting global understanding and cooperation among women.

Review Questions

• How did Carrie Chapman Catt's leadership influence the strategies employed by the women's suffrage movement?
  • Carrie Chapman Catt's leadership significantly shaped the strategies of the women's suffrage movement through her creation of the 'Winning Plan.' This approach combined grassroots activism at state levels with a concerted effort for a federal amendment to ensure voting rights. By effectively organizing campaigns and rallies, Catt motivated women across the country to engage politically, fostering a sense of unity among diverse groups within the movement.
• What role did Carrie Chapman Catt play in the establishment and goals of the League of Women Voters after achieving suffrage?
  • After the ratification of the 19th Amendment, Carrie Chapman Catt established the League of Women Voters as a way to continue advocating for women's involvement in politics. The league focused on educating newly enfranchised women voters about their rights and responsibilities, promoting civic participation, and pushing for issues like public health, education, and social reform. Catt's vision ensured that women were not just passive voters but active participants in shaping public policy.
• Evaluate Carrie Chapman Catt's contributions to both national and international movements for women's rights and how they reflected broader societal changes.
  • Carrie Chapman Catt's contributions to both national and international movements showcased her commitment to advancing women's rights on multiple fronts. Nationally, her leadership led to pivotal changes like securing the 19th Amendment, reflecting a significant shift towards gender equality in American society. Internationally, her efforts to promote peace through women's organizations highlighted an evolving understanding of women's roles beyond suffrage; they positioned women as crucial players in global diplomacy and community-building. This dual focus underscored broader societal changes as women increasingly took on leadership roles in various spheres.

Related terms

National American Woman Suffrage Association (NAWSA): An organization formed in 1890 to advocate for women's suffrage in the United States, merging various suffrage groups and providing a unified voice for the movement.

19th Amendment:

The constitutional amendment ratified in 1920 that granted women the right to vote, marking a significant victory for the women's suffrage movement.

Suffragette: A term used to describe women who actively campaigned for the right to vote, especially those involved in militant strategies during the suffrage movement.