Women Secure Property and Legal Rights

The women's rights movement fought for more than just the vote. Activists also challenged laws that gave husbands complete control over their wives' money and possessions. Before these reforms, a married woman could not legally own property or control her own wages.

Thanks to the efforts of reformers, states began to pass new laws. These Married Women's Property Acts gave women the right to own and manage their own property and earnings. Women also gained more rights in divorce cases, giving them greater legal independence.