Feminist Reform Movements in the 19th century, insert more transitions and its an A paper

Essay by genissisHigh School, 12th gradeA, May 2004

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The United States of America was the result of one long experiment in reform and change. The balance of direct and representative democracy with a positive, socially responsible government is a unique feature to our country. By improving social, political, and economic conditions, reform movements bolstered the progression of society. The three most important reform movements that have bettered society immeasurably have withstood the test of time, overcome incredible social obstacles, and have impacted the lives of every single person alive now. The women's rights movement, abolitionism, and the labor movement are the most appearant symbols of American progression towards a better society.

The women's rights movement grew out of a rejection of the social norm that men are superior to women. The norm manifested itself in various forms restricting women to the home and making them virtually the property of their husband after they marry. The first changes were even seen in colonial America when women began to take a greater role in their churches and thus became community leaders.

The wives of famous American revolutionaries reminded their husbands to "not forget the ladies." The early 19th century brought about a distinction in women. First were the upper class women that embraced the sphere of domesticity and took on the "angel in the house" role and were happy with the gender polarization and divisions created by this. The middle and lower class women were both unwilling and unable to accept this label. The need for more income in a family drove many women to putting out system where they could work from home or even the most radical women of the time began to work in factories as seamstresses and the like. This role helped shape the vision of women as being equal to men and thus brought about...