The Prolonged Journey to Women's Equal Rights in Europe and Beyond

For centuries, the journey towards women's equal rights has been a long and arduous one. From the scarcity of resources to the rigid societal structures, women's progress towards equality has been both gradual and significant. This article delves into the historical context and key factors that contributed to this evolution, providing insight into why it took so long for women to gain the rights and recognition they deserve.

Developments in Europe and Beyond

Long before the term 'women’s rights' found its way into the European discourse, figures like Utham Dan Fodio and the educational landscape of Sokoto were leading the way in promoting women's education. These early practices foreshadowed the importance of women's education and their role in society.

Practical Necessities and Societal Norms

Women were initially valued predominantly for their reproductive capabilities, a necessity underscored by high maternal and infant mortality rates. The survival of the population demanded that as many women as possible could give birth to as many children as possible to ensure that enough of them would survive. Even if women were physically as capable as men, their primary roles were limited to reproductive ones, as a husband with ten wives was seen to produce more offspring than a wife with ten husbands.

The advancements in medicine, including improvements in education and healthcare for women, played a pivotal role in enhancing public health. However, the fundamental societal norms that prioritized birth rates over women's rights persisted. In medieval times, over 80% of the population was engaged in farming, which meant that both men and women were needed. As mechanization and better agricultural understanding reduced the agricultural workforce, the necessity for a large female labor force diminished, but the mindset did not change swiftly.

Power and Representation

Women's lack of unity and effective organization was another significant factor. They were often distracted by societal norms and had not built up sufficient power or momentum to challenge these entrenched systems. Even queens, like the daughter of a noble, were at risk of being divorced, repudiated, or even beheaded if they could not produce a male heir. This stark example from the annals of history illustrates the limited value placed on women's capabilities beyond reproduction.

The Role of Religion and Law

The prevailing cultural and religious norms further hindered progress towards women's rights. Major religious institutions often promoted a hierarchical order of society, where women were inferior and subservient. Arrange marriages were a tool used by families to gain financial or political benefits, emphasizing the control of women's lives and their value as property rather than as independent individuals. These attitudes persisted despite intellectual and scientific advancements in their understanding of the world.

Even in modern times, the journey towards equality was fraught with challenges. In the United States, for instance, the right for women to obtain their own credit card was not granted until 1972, with the gradual acceptance of the Equal Rights Amendment. This highlights the persistence of traditional norms and ideologies that continue to impact women's rights in contemporary society.

The path to women's equal rights has been complex and multifaceted, influenced by historical, social, and cultural factors. While progress has been made, the journey is not yet complete. Understanding the historical context and the persistent challenges facing women's rights is crucial in continuing the fight for equality worldwide.