Women's Rights in Enlightenment Era

Definition

During the Enlightenment era, some thinkers began to argue for improved legal and social status for women, including rights to education and property. However, these ideas were not widely accepted until later periods.

Analogy

Think of Women's Rights in the Enlightenment Era as a seed being planted. It didn't grow into a full tree during this period (that would come later with movements like suffrage), but it was an important start.

Related terms

Mary Wollstonecraft: An English writer who advocated for women's equality and is considered one of the founding feminist philosophers.

Feminism: The belief in social, economic, and political equality of sexes. It also includes seeking establishment of educational & professional opportunities for women that are equal to such opportunities for men.

Declaration of the Rights of Woman and the Female Citizen: A document written by French activist Olympe de Gouges in 1791 which was directly inspired by French Revolution & demanded equal rights for women.