How Women's Lives Changed

Sources

Willson, Rachel, Women's Studies 117 Notes, Spring 2006

www.mit.edu

www.encarta.msn.com

www.vahistorical.org

www.chronicles.dickinson.edu

Women's lives during the 19th century colonial and revolutionary periods changed for the greater good. Laws, religion, the Industrial Revolution, and the changing economy influenced women's roles and relationships in their family and in society.

In 1776 women were introduced to the idea of enjoying life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness as stated in the Declaration of Independence. American colonial women now had the opportunity to start taking control of their lives. Laws in the 19th century began to change little by little. In 1766 very few divorces were granted to women, but by 1801 the laws loosened up. Women seldom handled land or commercial transactions or involved themselves with local politics. In early divorce cases women were practically banished from the community and from their families. However as the years passed so did the ways of the founding fathers. By the middle of the 19th century many states passed laws allowing women control over their possessions and wages. Women found that the more education they had the more freedom they could possess. Looking for different outlets to communicate, the church became one way for women to take on more responsibility.

Women became the mainstay of the churches and of the many church-based organizations. Reform groups, debating societies, bible study groups and literary associations were formed as communication networks and outlets for women with a hunger for knowledge. During the Revolution, women were faced with the ordeal of being responsible