The History of Women's Rights in the UK: Key Legal Milestones

---

The journey toward gender equality in the UK has been long and hard-fought, marked by significant legal and societal changes. From gaining the right to vote to securing protection from marital rape, women's rights in the UK have evolved dramatically over the past few centuries.

This blog explores the pivotal moments and key legal milestones in the history of women's rights in the UK.

---

Early Struggles for Equality

In the 19th century, women in the UK had very few rights. They were largely considered the property of their fathers or husbands and had limited legal or economic autonomy. However, the seeds of change were planted with early reform movements advocating for women's rights.

The Married Women's Property Act 1870 and 1882:

The Married Women's Property Act of 1870 was a significant step forward, allowing married women to keep earnings and inherit property. This was expanded further by the Married Women's Property Act of 1882, which granted married women full control over their property and income, effectively recognizing them as separate legal entities from their husbands.

The Right to Vote: Suffrage Movement

One of the most notable milestones in women's rights was the fight for suffrage. The movement gained momentum in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, led by organisations like the National Union of Women's Suffrage Societies (NUWSS) and the more militant Women's Social and Political Union (WSPU).

Representation of the People Act 1918:

This act granted voting rights to women over 30 who met minimum property qualifications. While a significant victory, it still excluded many women.

Representation of the People (Equal Franchise) Act 1928:

A decade later, this act granted equal voting rights to women and men, allowing all women over the age of 21 to vote.

Economic Rights:

Access to Bank Accounts and Employment Women's economic independence was another crucial area of reform. For much of history, women were financially dependent on their husbands or fathers.

Sex Disqualification (Removal) Act 1919:

This act opened up professions such as law and civil service to women, marking a significant step toward economic equality.

---

1960s and 1970s Reforms:

By the 1960s, many banks began allowing women to open accounts without a male guarantor. However, it was not until the 1970s that this became more widespread and accepted practice.

Reproductive Rights: Contraception and Abortion

Control over reproductive health has been a critical aspect of women's rights.

The Abortion Act 1967:

This act legalised abortion under certain conditions in England, Scotland, and Wales, allowing women greater control over their reproductive health.

The Pill:

Approved for use in the UK in 1961, the contraceptive pill gave women unprecedented control over family planning and reproductive choices.

Protection from Violence: Marital Rape and Domestic Abuse

One of the most profound changes in women's rights has been the recognition and criminalisation of violence against women, including within marriage.

Criminalisation of Marital Rape (1991):

In a landmark decision, the House of Lords ruled in R v R (1991) that a husband could be convicted of raping his wife. This ruling overturned centuries of legal

precedent that effectively permitted marital rape.

Domestic Violence, Crime and Victims Act 2004:

This act introduced measures to protect victims of domestic violence, including making the breach of non-molestation orders a criminal offense.

Workplace Equality: Equal Pay and Anti-Discrimination Laws

Equal Pay Act 1970:

This act made it illegal to pay women less than men for the same work, marking a significant step towards workplace equality.

Sex Discrimination Act 1975:

This act aimed to eliminate discrimination on the grounds of sex or marital status in employment, education, and the provision of goods and services.

Recent Developments: Continued Progress

The fight for women' rights continues, with recent legal advancements further protecting and empowering women.

The Equality Act 2010:

This comprehensive act consolidated previous anti-discrimination laws and introduced new protections against discrimination in various areas, including gender.

The Domestic Abuse Act 2021:

This act introduced a statutory definition of domestic abuse, recognizing various forms of abuse, and provided greater protections for victims.

---

The history of women's rights in the UK is a testament to the resilience and determination of countless individuals and movements striving for equality. From gaining property rights to achieving legal protection from violence, these milestones reflect significant progress. However, the journey is ongoing, and continued advocacy and legal reforms are essential to ensure full gender equality.

At One in Four, we remain committed to supporting women's rights and promoting a society where every woman can live with dignity, safety, and freedom.

---