Women's status during America's grand experiment as the world's first democracy has undergone dramatic changes over the generations. The religious doctrine, written laws, and social customs that colonists brought with them from Europe asserted women's subordinate position. Women were to marry, tend the house, and raise a family. Education beyond basic reading and writing was unusual. When a woman took a husband she lost what limited freedom she might have had as a single adult. …showed first 75 words of 600 total…

…showed last 75 words of 600 total…rape crisis hotlines, child care centers and health clinics. Commissions on the Status of Women investigated and reported on women's needs. State and federal laws were passed outlawing discrimination in employment and education, and women responded to their new opportunities with enthusiasm. Today, America is living the legacy of the great progress women have made in all the areas addressed at the Seneca Falls Convention, while their earnest quest for full and true equality continues.