What was the primary objective of the women's suffrage movement in the 19th century?

The primary objective of the women's suffrage movement in the 19th century was to secure the right to vote for women. This movement emerged as women sought to gain equal participation in the democratic process, striving for political equality that had traditionally been denied to them. Activists like Susan B. Anthony and Elizabeth Cady Stanton played pivotal roles in advocating for this right, arguing that suffrage was essential to achieving wider social and political reforms. The movement highlighted the need for women's voices in governance and challenged the prevailing societal norms that restricted women's roles in public life.

The focus on voting rights was foundational; suffragists believed that having the ability to vote would lead to improvements in a range of societal issues, including education, employment, and labor rights, but their central goal was firmly rooted in the right to participate in elections.