An evaluation of the reasons why some women were given the vote in 1918

Suffrage Movement Activism

Groups such as the National Union of Women’s Suffrage Societies (NUWSS) and the Women’s Social and Political Union (WSPU) significantly raised awareness of the women’s suffrage issue.
NUWSS, established by Millicent Fawcett, favoured persuasion and lobbying MPs. These peaceful tactics drew many supporters and helped to legitimise the demands of the suffrage movement.
The WSPU, led by Emmeline Pankhurst and her daughters, adopted more militant tactics, including public protests, disrupting political meetings, and damaging property. These actions drew significant media attention to women’s right to vote.
The use of civil disobedience by some women’s suffrage advocates, such as prison hunger strikes, gained sympathy and support from the public and put pressure on the government.

During World War I, many women took up roles traditionally performed by men, proving their competence in areas outside the domestic sphere. Women were engaged in a variety of war efforts, including munitions work and nursing, which highlighted their patriotism and dedication to the nation.
The significant contribution made by women during the war led to a shift in public opinion regarding gender roles and women’s capabilities.
The end of the war also brought a desire to reward women for their wartime efforts. Many politicians believed that granting some degree of female suffrage would be an appropriate gesture.

Prime Minister David Lloyd George, who came to power in 1916, was more sympathetic towards the suffrage movement compared to his predecessor Asquith.
The Labour Party’s support for women’s suffrage also had a political influence as they gained popularity in this period.
Ultimately, the Representation of the People Act (1918), pushed through by Lloyd George’s coalition government, extended the vote to all men over 21 and certain women over the age of 30.

The UK was not isolated in this movement. New Zealand granted women the vote in 1893, and by 1918, women in Australia and several US states could vote. This international shift towards granting women’s suffrage put further pressure on the UK to make legislative changes.