Elizabeth Cady Stanton | Biography

• By Stone Palmer
• Original : February 05, 2025

Who is Elizabeth Cady Stanton?

Elizabeth Cady Stanton was a pivotal figure in the early women's rights movement and a staunch abolitionist. Born on November 12, 1815, in Johnstown, New York, she was educated at Emma Willard's Troy Female Seminary and was influenced by the reformist spirit of her time. Her marriage to Henry Brewster Stanton in 1840 marked the beginning of her life as a reformer. Omitting the word “obey” from her wedding vows exemplified her commitment to women's autonomy. She gained notoriety for her participation in the World's Anti-Slavery Convention in London, where she and other women protested against their exclusion from the proceedings, solidifying her role in the fight for equal rights.

Stanton's most significant legacy lies in her advocacy for women's suffrage. In 1848, she co-organized the Seneca Falls Convention and drafted the Declaration of Sentiments, a powerful call for women's rights that included demands for voting equality. Throughout her life, she worked closely with other suffragists, including Susan B. Anthony, to promote women's rights and highlight the societal changes necessary for gender equality. Stanton not only focused on voting rights but also addressed issues such as divorce and access to education. She served as the first president of the National Woman Suffrage Association from its inception in 1869 until 1890, demonstrating her unwavering commitment to expanding women's rights across various domains.

Early Life and Education

Elizabeth Cady Stanton was born on November 12, 1815, in Johnstown, New York, into a family that valued intellect and education. Her father, a lawyer, famously expressed his disappointment over not having a son, which fueled Stanton’s resolve to excel in traditionally male domains. Her early life was marked by an intense desire for knowledge, leading her to demonstrate exceptional academic prowess. In 1832, she graduated from Emma Willard's Troy Female Seminary, an institution that empowered young women through education and fostered a spirit of reform.

Stanton’s journey into activism began at a young age, influenced by her visits to her cousin Gerrit Smith's home, where discussions on abolition, temperance, and women’s rights took place. In 1840, she married fellow reformer Henry Brewster Stanton, making a bold statement by omitting the word “obey” from her marriage vows. Their honeymoon at the World’s Anti-Slavery Convention in London became a pivotal moment for Stanton, as she and other women protested their exclusion from the proceedings. This experience galvanized her commitment to fighting for equality, laying the groundwork for her future work in the women’s rights movement.

Marriage and Family Life with Henry Stanton

Elizabeth Cady Stanton's marriage to Henry Brewster Stanton in 1840 was built upon mutual respect and shared ideals, most notably their commitment to reform movements. Notably, Elizabeth chose to omit the word “obey” from her marriage vows, emphasizing her belief in gender equality even at the outset of their union. The couple attended the World Anti-Slavery Convention in London shortly after their marriage, where Elizabeth famously protested the exclusion of women from the assembly. This experience solidified her drive to combat the inequalities faced by women in various spheres, including society and politics.

Together, Elizabeth and Henry had seven children, balancing parenthood with their reformist pursuits. While Henry studied law and practiced, Elizabeth continued to engage deeply in feminist movements, primarily in Seneca Falls, New York. Family life presented its challenges, but Elizabeth managed to intertwine her responsibilities as a mother with her advocacy work. Their partnership fostered an environment of intellectual discourse, allowing Stanton to develop her thoughts on women's rights, suffrage, and social reform, which ultimately paved the way for her future prominence in the women’s rights movement.

Pioneering Work in Women's Rights and Suffrage

Elizabeth Cady Stanton was a quintessential figure in the early women’s rights movement, recognized for her groundbreaking contributions and advocacy for suffrage. Born on November 12, 1815, in Johnstown, New York, Stanton defied societal norms by pursuing intellectual and political spheres typically reserved for men. Her pivotal role in the women's rights movement was solidified during the Seneca Falls Convention of 1848, where she co-authored the "Declaration of Sentiments." This document boldly called for equal rights for women, including the fundamental right to vote. Stanton’s partnership with contemporaries like Lucretia Mott and Susan B. Anthony transformed the landscape of women's rights, making her a key leader in the fight for equality.

Throughout her life, Stanton remained fiercely dedicated to the cause of women’s rights and suffrage. In 1869, she co-founded the National Woman Suffrage Association (NWSA) with Anthony, serving as its first president for two decades. Stanton's advocacy extended beyond the ballot box; her work encompassed various social reforms, including issues of divorce and education. She was a prolific writer, championing women’s perspectives through her essays and speeches. Notably, her collaboration on "The History of Woman Suffrage" further established her legacy as a pivotal commentator on the movement. Stanton's diverse activism and eloquence rendered her a formidable advocate whose impact still resonates today.

Later Contributions and Legacy

Elizabeth Cady Stanton's later contributions to the women's rights movement were pivotal in shaping the discourse surrounding women's suffrage. After the Civil War, she became even more determined to advocate for women's right to vote and other civil rights. Stanton's involvement in the National Woman Suffrage Association as its first president allowed her to influence suffrage strategies effectively. Her collaboration with Susan B. Anthony resulted in a powerful alliance that drove the movement forward, including publishing the "History of Woman Suffrage," which documented women's fight for rights. Stanton’s advocacy was not limited to voting rights; she was also a proponent for broader reforms including divorce rights and educational opportunities for women.

Stanton's legacy extends beyond her immediate contributions; she challenged societal norms and the role of religion in women's rights. Her work on "The Woman's Bible," co-authored with her daughter Harriet Stanton Blatch, criticized traditional interpretations of scripture that reinforced gender inequalities. This audacious project highlighted her belief that religious doctrines were often manipulated to justify women's subjugation. Despite facing criticism from both religious communities and suffragists, Stanton's willingness to address these complex issues has left an indelible mark on the feminist movement. Her broad advocacy for women's rights and her commitment to social reform have solidified her status as a key figure in American history and a beacon for future generations of activists.

Personal Life: Married Life | Children

Elizabeth Cady Stanton married Henry Brewster Stanton, a fellow reformer, in 1840. Their marriage was notable for its progressive values; Elizabeth chose to omit the word "obey" from her wedding vows, reflecting her commitment to equality within the partnership. Together, they attended the World’s Anti-Slavery Convention in London shortly after their marriage, where Elizabeth famously protested against the exclusion of women from the proceedings. Their shared dedication to reform and social justice laid the foundation for a partnership that would significantly influence the early women’s movement.

The couple had seven children, balancing family life with their social activism. While Henry pursued his career in law, Elizabeth remained an active participant in the women's rights movement, often juggling her responsibilities as a mother with her commitments to various reform causes. Their children were raised in an environment that emphasized equality and social justice, which undoubtedly shaped their future perspectives. Elizabeth's ability to navigate the complexities of family life while advocating for women’s rights showcased her remarkable resilience and determination, making her contributions to the suffrage movement even more significant.

Net Worth and Earning: Salary Overview

Elizabeth Cady Stanton, a prominent figure in the women's rights movement, dedicated her life to advocating for social reform rather than accumulating personal wealth. Born in 1815, Stanton's efforts were largely volunteer-based; therefore, her direct financial earnings from her activism were minimal. As a leader of the National Woman Suffrage Association and a prolific writer, her income primarily came from speaking engagements and writing, including her work on the "History of Woman Suffrage." By working collaboratively with other activists like Susan B. Anthony, Stanton was able to maximize her influence, although financial compensation for her efforts was never her primary motivation.

While exact figures on her net worth are challenging to ascertain today, it's essential to recognize that Stanton's legacy is not defined by financial wealth but by her indelible impact on women's rights. The sacrifices made by Stanton in pursuit of equal rights for women contributed significantly to the progress seen in the suffrage movement. In light of her commitment to social reform, it can be concluded that Elizabeth Cady Stanton’s true earnings are measured in the advancements achieved for women's rights and her enduring role as a trailblazer in American history.