By: HISTORY.com Editors

1893

New Zealand first in women’s vote

Published: February 09, 2010

Last Updated: January 24, 2025

With the signing of the Electoral Bill by Governor Lord Glasgow, New Zealand becomes the first country in the world to grant national voting rights to women. The bill was the outcome of years of suffragette meetings in towns and cities across the country, with women often traveling considerable distances to hear lectures and speeches, pass resolutions, and sign petitions. New Zealand women first went to the polls in the national elections of November 1893.

The United States legally guaranteed American women the right to vote in 1920, and Great Britain granted full voting rights for women in 1928.

The 19th Amendment

In 1920, women in the U.S. gained the right to vote - but only after a struggle that lasted more than 70 years! Learn how suffragists fought for the 19th amendment.

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Citation Information

Article title
New Zealand first in women’s vote
Website Name
History
Date Accessed
April 23, 2025
Publisher
A&E Television Networks
Last Updated
January 24, 2025
Original Published Date
February 09, 2010

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