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Warren G. Harding became the 29th president of the United States in 1921. His 1920 election was the first that women in the United States were able to vote in. Based on your understanding of the women's suffrage movement in the United States, why do you think it took so long to grant women suffrage?

a. Lack of interest from women
b. Opposition from political leaders
c. Deep-rooted societal norms
d. Rapid changes in political landscape

1 Answer

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Final answer:

Women's suffrage was a long battle against deep-rooted societal norms and political opposition, resulting in the 19th Amendment in 1920 largely due to women's roles during World War I and unyielding efforts of suffrage movements.

Step-by-step explanation:

The struggle for women's suffrage in the United States was a prolonged battle influenced by several factors. One of the main reasons it took so long for women to gain the right to vote was deep-rooted societal norms and opposition from political leaders. Women's participation in the workforce during World War I and their consequent support for the war effort helped shift politicians' views in favor of women's suffrage. The introduction of the 19th Amendment and its ratification in August 1920 were major milestones in the movement.

By 1912, ten states and/or territories had recognized the right of women to vote, but it was not until the 19th Amendment was passed that suffrage was extended to all women across the country. The amendment's passage was largely a result of the relentless efforts of suffrage organizations and the political pressure they mounted, particularly as women's role in society changed and their contributions to the war were recognized.

User Alexandre Voyer
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