History of U.S. Laws That Negatively Impacted Opportunities for Women

1. 1769 – Women Lose Autonomy in Marriage

American colonies adopt English common law that establishes women as becoming one with their husbands. Only the husband retains any legal rights once a woman has entered into marriage. Once married, women cease to exist legally.

2. 1777 – Voting Rights Abolished

Laws are passed by every state that prohibits all women from voting.

3. 1866 – Rights of Voters and Citizens are Defined as Being “Male”

Congress passes the 14th Amendment defining how state representatives will be appointed by the number of voters. The Amendment identifies “voters” and citizens” to be counted specifically as “male.”

4. 1873 – Women Barred From Practicing Law

The U.S. Supreme Court permits states to ban women from practicing law. Bradwell v. Illinois, 83 U.S. 130 (1872).

5. 1875 – Once Again, Voting Rights Are Denied to Women

The U.S. Supreme Court declares women as persons, but as “non-voting citizens.” Minor v Happersett, 88 U.S. 162 (1875)

6. 1908 – Women’s Workdays Are Shorter Than Men’s

Implying that women are physically weaker than man, the U.S. Supreme Court rules in favor of Oregon laws limited women to a 10-hour work day. Muller v State of Oregon, 208 U.S. 412 (1908)

7. 1924 – New York Waitresses Must Work Days

Women are forbidden from working the nightshift in restaurants and clubs except as women’s bathroom attendants, or as entertainers. Radice v. New York.

8. 1932 – A Law to Force Women Out of Government Jobs

The National Recovery Act is enacted. The law forbids more than one family member from holding a government job. This law was effective in removing women from the workplace who filled in many jobs while men were fighting in WW II. As men returned to government jobs, women were ousted.

9. 1981 – Women Cannot be Drafted

The U.S. Supreme Court rules that excluding women from the draft is constitutional.