Women's Suffrage (1903–1928)

Emmeline Pankhurst founded the Women's Social and Political Union (WSPU) in 1903. The WSPU adopted the motto "Deeds not words" and moved away from peaceful lobbying towards direct action. Its members became known as the "Suffragettes" — a term originally used mockingly by the press but later adopted with pride.

The Suffragettes used increasingly dramatic tactics to draw attention to their cause, including chaining themselves to railings, smashing windows, and arson attacks on postboxes. Many were imprisoned and, when they went on hunger strike, were force-fed — a practice that caused public outrage.

Emily Wilding Davison was a prominent Suffragette who became a martyr for the cause. At the Epsom Derby on 4 June 1913, she stepped in front of the King's horse, Anmer, during the race and was fatally injured. She died four days later. Her funeral became a large public demonstration of support for the Suffragette movement.

The First World War (1914–1918) interrupted the campaign, and many Suffragettes turned their efforts to supporting the war. Women's contributions to the war effort helped shift public opinion. In 1918, the Representation of the People Act gave the vote to women over the age of 30 who met a property qualification.

Full equal voting rights were not achieved until 1928, when the Equal Franchise Act gave all women over the age of 21 the same voting rights as men — on equal terms at last.