Abraham Lincoln and Women’s Rights: A Historical Perspective

Photo of six suffragists at the 1920 Republican National Convention in Chicago. 

The banner reads: "No self respecting woman should wish or work for the success of a party that ignores her self. Susan B. Anthony, 1872." (Universal Images Group)

Abraham Lincoln's profound commitment to equality and justice extended far beyond his own time. While he didn’t directly address women’s suffrage during his presidency, his principles of liberty, fairness, and democracy became touchstones for suffragists in their fight for equal rights. Lincoln’s interpretation of the Declaration of Independence—that its promises applied to “all men” in the universal sense—resonated deeply with advocates for women’s suffrage, who saw their struggle as a continuation of Lincoln’s legacy.

In his 1836 campaign statement, Lincoln wrote, “I go for all sharing the privileges of the government who assist in bearing its burdens, by no means excluding women.” This line, though subject to historical debate, offered a powerful argument for extending suffrage to women. Suffragists later invoked these words to align Lincoln’s name with their movement, framing their right to vote as a logical extension of his commitment to a government “of the people, by the people, for the people.”

Leaders like Elizabeth Cady Stanton and Susan B. Anthony admired Lincoln as a champion of justice. Stanton even referenced Lincoln in her speeches, highlighting his dedication to the ideals of equality enshrined in the Declaration of Independence. They saw Lincoln’s fight to end slavery not as a standalone achievement, but as part of a broader moral arc toward universal equality—a cause that included women’s enfranchisement.

The suffragists also drew inspiration from Lincoln’s belief in the rule of law as a force for positive change. Just as Lincoln had used the legal framework of the Constitution to push forward the abolition of slavery, suffragists sought to amend the Constitution to include women in the democratic process. The passage of the 19th Amendment in 1920 was, in many ways, the realization of the inclusive democracy Lincoln envisioned but did not live to see.

Beyond suffrage, Lincoln’s legacy also shaped arguments about women’s broader role in society. His emphasis on empathy, justice, and the burdens of governance provided a philosophical foundation for expanding women’s participation in public life. By linking their cause to Lincoln’s values, suffragists underscored that their fight was not just about voting rights—it was about fulfilling the promise of equality that Lincoln himself championed.

Today, Lincoln’s ideals continue to inspire the fight for equality and justice. His legacy serves as a reminder that the struggle for civil rights is ongoing and that democracy thrives when it includes all voices. For advocates of women’s rights, Lincoln remains not just a historical figure, but a symbol of the enduring struggle to create a more just and equitable society. His legacy continues to serve as a beacon, affirming that true equality strengthens society rather than divides it. These values remain as vital today, offering a powerful counterpoint to those who seek to dismantle the progress toward inclusion of all genders, races, cultures, and those with disabilities.

This is another reflection on Lincoln's legacy, whose principles can guide us still.

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