First-wave feminism

First-wave feminism refers to the movement, primarily in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, that focused on legal issues and inequalities, particularly advocating for women's suffrage—the right to vote. It aimed to address women's rights to education, property, and employment. Activists fought against societal norms that restricted women's roles and sought equality in rights. Key figures included Susan B. Anthony and Elizabeth Cady Stanton in the U.S., who played crucial roles in mobilizing women for these causes. This wave laid the groundwork for subsequent feminist movements by challenging the subordinate position of women in society.