68 Historical Photographs That Help Us Understand What Life Was Like in the 1920s

#40: Ratification of the 19th Amendment

In the summer of 1920, joyous celebrations erupted across the United States as the 19th Amendment was ratified, granting women the right to vote. Despite this monumental victory, women of color faced significant institutional obstacles that hindered their voting rights.

The pivotal role of women during World War I greatly influenced the ratification of the 19th Amendment. Their invaluable contribution to the war effort, by stepping into roles traditionally held by men, demonstrated their patriotism and underscored their deservingness of voting rights, making it hard for anyone to refute their entitlement.