JR
Jeannette Rankin
45quotes
Full Name and Common Aliases
Jeannette Pickering Rankin
Birth and Death Dates
Born: June 11, 1880, Missoula, Montana, USA
Died: May 18, 1973, Carmel-by-the-Sea, California, USA
Nationality and Profession(s)
Nationality: American
Profession: Politician, Social Worker, Suffragist
Early Life and Background
Jeannette Rankin was born on June 11, 1880, in Missoula, Montana. Her family moved to Montana when she was just a child, settling on a ranch near Frenchtown. Rankin's early life was marked by hard work and self-sufficiency, as her family struggled to make ends meet. Despite these challenges, she received a good education at the local school and later attended the University of Montana.
Major Accomplishments
Jeannette Rankin is best known for being one of the first two women elected to Congress in 1916. She represented Montana's at-large congressional district from 1917 to 1919 and again from 1941 to 1943. During her time in office, she was a vocal advocate for women's suffrage and pacifism. Rankin was also an early supporter of the 19th Amendment, which granted American women the right to vote.
Notable Works or Actions
In 1917, Rankin became one of only 50 representatives to vote against the United States' entry into World War I. She famously declared, "As a woman, I may not be able to go to war, but I can refuse to support it." This stance made her a target for criticism and ridicule, but also earned her a reputation as a principled and courageous politician.
Impact and Legacy
Jeannette Rankin's impact on American politics cannot be overstated. She was a trailblazer for women in politics, paving the way for future generations of female leaders. Her commitment to pacifism and social justice continues to inspire people around the world today. In 1972, at the age of 91, Rankin returned her Congressional Medal of Honor in protest of the Vietnam War, highlighting her continued dedication to her principles.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Jeannette Rankin is widely quoted and remembered for her powerful words and actions on behalf of peace and social justice. Her commitment to living by her conscience has inspired countless people around the world, and her legacy continues to be felt today. As a politician, suffragist, and advocate for human rights, Jeannette Rankin remains an iconic figure in American history.
Rankin's dedication to her principles was unwavering, even in the face of criticism and ridicule. Her willingness to take unpopular stands on issues like pacifism and women's rights has made her a beloved and respected figure among people from all walks of life. As we continue to navigate the complexities of modern politics and society, Jeannette Rankin's words and actions serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of standing up for what one believes in, even when it is difficult or unpopular.
Through her tireless work on behalf of peace and social justice, Jeannette Rankin has left an indelible mark on American history. Her legacy continues to inspire people today, reminding us that even in the darkest of times, there is always hope for a better future.
Quotes by Jeannette Rankin
Jeannette Rankin's insights on:
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Go! Go! Go! It makes no difference where, just so you go! Go! Go! Remember, at the first opportunity, go.
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There can be no compromise with war; it cannot be reformed or controlled; cannot be disciplined into decency or codified into common sense.
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How can people in other countries who are trying to grasp our plan of democracy avoid stumbling over our logic when we deny the first steps in democracy to our women?
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We reasoned that the men would find it difficult to vote against the women in their home states when a woman was sitting with them making laws.
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We have to get it into our heads once and for all that we cannot settle disputes by eliminating human beings.
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It will be hard to convince people that their welfare is safe in the hands of a federal government when they feel themselves the victims of unjust sectional discrimination.
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It is important for people to be able to read all sides of every question; for a feeling of national unity does not come from one-sided or inadequate information, but from a sense of freedom impartially secured and of opportunity equalized by a just government.
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If you're against war, you're against war regardless of what happens. It's a wrong method of trying to settle a dispute.
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Might it not be that a great force that has always been thinking in terms of human needs, and that always will think in terms of human needs, has not been mobilized? Is it not possible that the women of the country have something of value to give the nation at this time?
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If they are going to have war, they ought to take the old men and leave the young to propagate the race.
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