Answer Key to Viewing Guide Questions
The leaders of the National American Woman Suffrage Association disliked the English suffragettes due to their radical tactics and fear of public backlash.
The movie begins in Philadelphia, September 12, 1912, highlighting the start of Alice Paul’s suffrage efforts.
Alice Paul and Lucy Burns took over NAWSA’s Congressional Committee, bringing fresh energy to the movement.
Alice Paul proposed organizing parades and pickets to gain national attention for the suffrage movement.
Paul’s main supporter in Washington was Lucy Burns, who shared her vision for radical activism.
The new suffragists, led by Paul and Burns, adopted more aggressive strategies compared to earlier leaders like Susan B. Anthony.
The state of Wyoming first granted women the right to vote, setting a precedent for others;
The Washington Post reporter, Ben Weed, became a supporter of the suffragists after witnessing their determination.
As a result of the split, Alice Paul created the National Woman’s Party (NWP) to focus on federal suffrage.
Lucy Burns and protesters were arrested for picketing during wartime, leading to harsh prison conditions and national outcry.
Iron Jawed Angels is a historical drama film that explores the American women’s suffrage movement during the early 20th century. The movie focuses on the lives of Alice Paul and Lucy Burns, two pivotal figures who led the National Woman’s Party (NWP) in their fight for women’s right to vote. Directed by Katja von Garnier, the film highlights the challenges, sacrifices, and determination of these suffragists as they confronted societal norms and political opposition. Through vivid portrayals of events such as hunger strikes, imprisonment, and protests, the film sheds light on the resilience of women who risked everything for equality. The title “Iron Jawed Angels” reflects their unwavering resolve and fierce dedication to the cause. This film serves as a powerful educational tool, offering insights into the struggles and triumphs of the suffrage movement.
Historical Context of the Womens Suffrage Movement
The womens suffrage movement in the United States gained momentum in the early 20th century, with women fighting for the right to vote. By 1912, when the film begins, only a few states allowed women to vote, and the movement was fragmented. The National American Woman Suffrage Association (NAWSA) focused on state-level reforms, while more radical groups, like the National Womens Party (NWP), emerged to push for federal action. Society viewed women as subordinate, and their exclusion from politics was deeply ingrained. The movement faced fierce opposition, including violence and dismissive attitudes from both men and women. Despite these challenges, suffragists like Alice Paul and Lucy Burns adopted bold strategies, such as picketing the White House, to draw national attention. Their efforts ultimately contributed to the passage of the 19th Amendment in 1920, granting women the right to vote.
Plot Summary and Key Events
The film portrays Alice Paul and Lucy Burns leading the suffrage movement, forming the National Woman’s Party, and employing radical tactics like picketing, which led to arrests and national attention, ultimately contributing to the passage of the 19th Amendment.
The Beginning of the Movement
The film opens in 1912, depicting Alice Paul and Lucy Burns’ early efforts within the National American Woman Suffrage Association (NAWSA). They begin by working within NAWSA’s Congressional Committee, aiming to push for a federal amendment. However, their radical ideas clash with NAWSA’s conservative approach. The movement gains momentum as Paul and Burns organize events like the 1913 Washington D.C. parade, despite opposition. Their determination to challenge traditional methods sparks both support and criticism. This marks the beginning of a more aggressive suffrage campaign, setting the stage for the formation of the National Woman’s Party (NWP) and their groundbreaking protests.
The Role of Alice Paul and Lucy Burns
Alice Paul and Lucy Burns were instrumental in the suffrage movement, bringing youthful energy and radical ideas to the cause. Alice, a skilled strategist, envisioned a national movement focused on securing a federal amendment. Lucy, her trusted ally, provided organizational expertise and emotional support. Together, they challenged the conservative approaches of NAWSA, advocating for direct action. Their leadership led to the formation of the National Woman’s Party (NWP), which organized high-profile events like the 1913 Washington D.C. parade and White House pickets. These actions, though controversial, drew national attention to the suffrage cause. Their unwavering dedication and innovative tactics made them central figures in the fight for women’s voting rights, inspiring others to join their efforts despite the risks of arrest and public scrutiny.
Key Events Depicted in the Film
The film Iron Jawed Angels highlights pivotal moments in the suffrage movement. It begins with Alice Paul’s return from England, where she was inspired by militant suffragettes. The 1913 Washington D.C. parade, organized by Paul and Burns, showcased women’s determination but faced violent opposition. The subsequent split from NAWSA led to the formation of the National Woman’s Party (NWP); The film portrays the NWP’s bold tactics, including picketing the White House, which resulted in arrests and harsh prison conditions. Key scenes depict Lucy Burns’ imprisonment and the endurance of suffragists during hunger strikes. These events underscore the sacrifices made by Paul and Burns, illustrating their relentless pursuit of women’s suffrage despite societal and political resistance.
Character Analysis
Understanding the Roles and Motivations
Alice Paul’s leadership and determination drove the suffrage movement, while Lucy Burns’ organizational skills complemented her partner’s vision, creating a formidable team for women’s rights.
Alice Paul: Her Motivations and Leadership
Alice Paul’s motivations stemmed from her deep belief in equality and justice. She was driven by the desire to secure women’s suffrage through radical yet nonviolent methods. Her leadership style was assertive and visionary, often challenging the conservative approaches of traditional suffragists. Paul’s strategic thinking and unwavering commitment inspired countless women to join the movement. She faced significant opposition, including imprisonment, but remained resolute in her fight. Her ability to galvanize support and maintain focus under pressure made her a pivotal figure in the suffrage movement. Paul’s leadership not only advanced the cause but also left a lasting legacy in the struggle for women’s rights.
Lucy Burns: Her Role in the Movement
Lucy Burns was an instrumental figure in the women’s suffrage movement, working closely alongside Alice Paul. She shared Paul’s vision for radical activism and played a crucial role in organizing protests and demonstrations. Burns was known for her strategic thinking and ability to rally support, often taking on key organizational roles within the National Woman’s Party. Her unwavering dedication and courage in the face of adversity made her a trusted ally and leader. Burns was also one of the many suffragists who endured imprisonment for their activism, further solidifying her commitment to the cause. Her contributions were essential in pushing forward the movement’s goals and securing women’s right to vote.
Other Important Figures in the Film
In addition to Alice Paul and Lucy Burns, several other figures played significant roles in the suffrage movement as depicted in Iron Jawed Angels. Inez Milholland, a charismatic lawyer, became a symbol of the movement after her tragic death during a speech. Her dedication and sacrifice inspired many; Ben Weed, a reporter for the Washington Post, initially skeptical of the suffragists, became a key supporter after witnessing their resilience. President Woodrow Wilson, though initially opposed to suffrage, eventually supported the cause due to the suffragists’ relentless efforts. These figures, along with others, contributed to the movement’s momentum and highlighted the diverse roles people played in achieving women’s suffrage.
The Suffrage Movement in the Film
The film portrays the suffrage movement’s evolution, highlighting the formation of the National Woman’s Party and the split from NAWSA, showcasing strategies like picketing and hunger strikes.
The Split from the National American Woman Suffrage Association (NAWSA)
The split occurred due to differing strategies between Alice Paul and NAWSA leaders. NAWSA focused on state-level reforms, while Paul advocated for a federal suffrage amendment; Tensions rose as Paul’s radical tactics, including picketing and protests, clashed with NAWSA’s more conservative approach. This ideological divide led to Paul’s departure and the formation of the National Woman’s Party (NWP). The film depicts this split as a pivotal moment, highlighting the challenges of uniting factions with differing visions for the suffrage movement. The split ultimately accelerated the push for federal action, demonstrating how internal conflicts can drive significant change in social movements.
The Formation of the National Womens Party (NWP)
The National Woman’s Party (NWP) was formed by Alice Paul and Lucy Burns after their split from NAWSA. The NWP focused solely on securing a federal constitutional amendment granting women the right to vote. Unlike NAWSA, which pursued state-by-state reforms, the NWP adopted bold, direct-action tactics, including picketing, marches, and hunger strikes. These methods drew national attention and pressured politicians to address suffrage. The party’s formation marked a turning point in the movement, as it unified women under a single, unwavering goal. The NWP’s militant approach, though controversial, played a crucial role in the eventual passage of the 19th Amendment in 1920, ensuring women’s suffrage across the United States.
Strategies and Tactics Used by the Suffragists
The suffragists employed a variety of innovative and often controversial strategies to advance their cause; Picketing the White House, organizing mass marches, and staging hunger strikes were central tactics used by Alice Paul and the National Woman’s Party. These actions were designed to draw public attention and pressure politicians into supporting the suffrage amendment. The suffragists also utilized the media effectively, ensuring their protests and arrests were widely publicized. Additionally, they embraced civil disobedience, enduring imprisonment and harsh conditions to highlight the injustice of their exclusion from voting rights. Their bold approach contrasted sharply with earlier, more conservative methods, galvanizing support and pushing the movement into the national spotlight. These strategies ultimately proved instrumental in securing the passage of the 19th Amendment.
The Opposition and Challenges Faced
The suffragists encountered significant opposition, both from societal norms and political institutions. Many Americans, including women, opposed suffrage, believing it challenged traditional gender roles. Politicians often dismissed their demands, and the movement faced internal conflicts, particularly with more conservative suffrage groups. The National Woman’s Party’s radical tactics, such as picketing and hunger strikes, led to arrests and imprisonment. During World War I, public opinion shifted, with some viewing their protests as unpatriotic. Additionally, racial tensions emerged as Black suffragists faced exclusion from predominantly white suffrage events. Despite these challenges, the suffragists’ resilience and determination helped sustain the movement, ultimately leading to the passage of the 19th Amendment in 1920, granting women the right to vote. Their struggles highlighted the deeply entrenched resistance to gender equality and the sacrifices made to achieve it.
Historical Accuracy and Relevance
Iron Jawed Angels accurately portrays the suffrage movement’s key events, emphasizing the determination of Alice Paul and Lucy Burns. While some scenes are dramatized for effect, the film captures the essence of their struggles and the eventual triumph of securing the 19th Amendment, ensuring women’s voting rights.
Accuracy of the Film’s Portrayal
The film Iron Jawed Angels provides a generally accurate portrayal of the suffrage movement, capturing the determination and resilience of Alice Paul and Lucy Burns. Key events, such as the 1913 Washington D.C. parade and the imprisonment of suffragists, are depicted faithfully. The film highlights the challenges faced by the suffragists, including hunger strikes and forced feeding, which align with historical records. However, some artistic liberties are taken, such as the simplification of the ratification process of the 19th Amendment. The film also emphasizes the split between the National Woman’s Party (NWP) and the National American Woman Suffrage Association (NAWSA), though it portrays NAWSA in a more negative light than historical accounts suggest. Overall, the film effectively conveys the significance of the suffrage movement while remaining mostly true to its historical context.
The Significance of the 19th Amendment
The 19th Amendment, ratified in 1920, holds profound significance as it granted women in the United States the constitutional right to vote. This milestone marked the culmination of decades of relentless activism by suffragists like Alice Paul and Lucy Burns, who faced immense opposition and personal sacrifices. The amendment not only ensured political equality for women but also symbolized a broader shift in societal attitudes toward gender roles. By securing voting rights, women gained a powerful tool to influence legislation and advocate for further reforms. The ratification of the 19th Amendment remains a cornerstone of American democracy, emphasizing the importance of equality and representation for all citizens. Its impact continues to resonate, inspiring future generations to fight for justice and equality.
Viewing Guide Questions
How did Alice Paul’s leadership style differ from that of NAWSA leaders, and what impact did this have on the movement?
What role did picketing the White House play in drawing attention to the suffrage cause?
How did the portrayal of imprisonment and hunger strikes highlight the sacrifices made by suffragists?
In what ways did the film depict the societal opposition faced by the suffragists?
What message did the film convey about the importance of unity in achieving social change?
Questions to Answer While Watching the Film
In what city and year does the film begin, and what event sets the stage for the suffrage movement?
Why do Alice Paul and Lucy Burns disagree with NAWSA’s approach to suffrage?
What motivates Alice Paul to adopt more radical tactics, and how does this impact the movement?
How does the formation of the National Woman’s Party (NWP) differ from NAWSA’s goals?
What role does picketing the White House play in the suffragists’ strategy?
How does the arrest and imprisonment of suffragists affect public opinion?
What significance does the 1913 suffrage parade hold in the film?
How does the character of Ben Weed contribute to the movement’s visibility?
What impact does Inez Milholland’s death have on the suffragists and their cause?
How do the suffragists use hunger strikes as a form of protest?
What role does the ratification of the 19th Amendment play in the film’s conclusion?
How do Alice Paul and Lucy Burns’ friendship and collaboration shape the movement?
What challenges do the suffragists face in uniting women across different backgrounds?
How does the film portray the opposition to women’s suffrage?
What legacy do Alice Paul and Lucy Burns leave behind?
Post-Viewing Discussion Questions
How did the suffragists’ use of radical tactics, like picketing and hunger strikes, impact public perception and their cause?
What role did leadership play in the movement, and how did Alice Paul and Lucy Burns’ partnership shape its direction?
How did the portrayal of imprisonment and violence against suffragists influence your understanding of their sacrifices?
In what ways did the suffragists challenge societal norms, and what were the consequences of their defiance?
How did the film depict the opposition to women’s suffrage, and what motivations did opponents have?
What significance did the 1913 parade and subsequent events hold in galvanizing the movement?
How did the film highlight the intersection of race and gender in the suffrage movement?
What lessons can modern activists learn from the strategies and perseverance of the suffragists?
How did the ratification of the 19th Amendment mark both a triumph and a starting point for further equality?
What personal sacrifices did Alice Paul and Lucy Burns make for the movement, and were they justified?
How does the film’s portrayal of the suffrage movement relate to contemporary struggles for equality?
What message do you think the filmmakers hoped audiences would take away from the story?
How did the characters evolve throughout the film, and what pivotal moments shaped their development?
What role did media and public opinion play in the success or failure of the suffragists’ efforts?
How did the film balance historical accuracy with storytelling, and what impact did this have on its message?
Educational Resources and Tools
Study guides, flashcards, and differentiated question sets are available on platforms like Quizlet, offering comprehensive resources for understanding the film and its historical context.
Study Guides and Flashcards Available Online
Various online platforms, such as Quizlet, offer detailed study guides and flashcards for Iron Jawed Angels. These resources include key terms, historical context, and film-specific questions to enhance understanding.
Flashcards cover topics like the roles of Alice Paul and Lucy Burns, the formation of the National Woman’s Party, and significant events depicted in the film. Study guides provide summaries and analysis of the suffrage movement, helping students engage deeply with the material.
These tools are particularly useful for classroom discussions or individual study, offering a structured approach to learning about the film and its historical significance. Many sets include differentiated questions to cater to various learning levels, ensuring accessibility for all students.
By leveraging these resources, students can better grasp the film’s portrayal of the suffrage movement and its impact on American history;
Differentiated Question Sets for Students
Differentiated question sets for Iron Jawed Angels cater to varying student learning levels. One set is designed for general education students, focusing on core concepts and events.
A second set uses simplified vocabulary to support students who may need additional support. A third set combines lower-level vocabulary with specialized instructions, ensuring accessibility for all learners.
These question sets cover key themes, such as the roles of Alice Paul and Lucy Burns, the split from NAWSA, and the formation of the NWP. They also address the challenges faced by suffragists and the significance of the 19th Amendment.
By tailoring questions to different skill levels, teachers can engage diverse learners and ensure comprehension of the film’s historical context and relevance. This approach reinforces critical thinking and promotes deeper understanding of the suffrage movement.
The film Iron Jawed Angels provides a powerful portrayal of the suffrage movement, highlighting the courage of Alice Paul and Lucy Burns. It serves as an educational tool, inspiring further exploration of women’s history and the importance of the 19th Amendment.
The Impact of Iron Jawed Angels on Understanding the Suffrage Movement
Iron Jawed Angels has significantly enhanced understanding of the suffrage movement by vividly portraying the struggles and triumphs of Alice Paul and Lucy Burns. The film highlights their innovative strategies, such as picketing and hunger strikes, which drew national attention to the cause. By depicting the harsh realities of imprisonment and societal opposition, the movie humanizes the suffragists and underscores their unwavering dedication. It also emphasizes the importance of unity and the challenges of overcoming internal divisions within the movement. The film has become a valuable educational tool, inspiring discussions about gender equality and the fight for voting rights. Its historical accuracy and emotional depth make it a compelling resource for learning about the suffrage movement and the eventual passage of the 19th Amendment.
Encouragement for Further Study and Discussion
Viewing Iron Jawed Angels offers a compelling starting point for deeper exploration of the suffrage movement. Students and educators are encouraged to delve into primary sources, such as speeches by Alice Paul and historical records of the National Woman’s Party. Exploring the broader social and political context of the early 20th century provides a richer understanding of the movement’s significance. Discussions can extend to the film’s portrayal of key events, its historical accuracy, and the enduring legacy of the suffragists. Encouraging students to reflect on the relevance of the movement to modern-day social justice efforts fosters critical thinking and empathy. By combining the film with additional research and dialogue, learners can gain a more profound appreciation for the struggles and triumphs of the women who shaped American history.