Emmeline Pankhurst

Did you know Emmeline Pankhurst was arrested more than 10 times fighting for women's right to vote?
Born to politically active parents in 1858, Pankhurst's commitment to social equality was ignited at a young age. Her father was a passionate advocate for the abolition of slavery and her mother was a feisty feminist. In 1889, she founded the Women’s Franchise League which fought to allow married women to vote. The League's effectiveness was limited, leading Pankhurst to establish the more militant Women's Social and Political Union in 1903. Membership was limited to women only, and it followed a mantra of 'deeds not words', implementing a strategic campaign of civil disobedience. Pankhurst and her army of suffragettes endured imprisonment, hunger strikes and force-feeding in their bid to secure voting rights. She was arrested repeatedly and subjected to brutal treatment, displaying unwavering courage and resilience. Her dedication led to the Representation of the People Act 1918, granting suffrage to women over the age of 30. Pankhurst’s fight represents one of the most important battles in democratic history, and her contributions to women's rights continue to inspire modern feminist movements.

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