Revolutionary Women: Letters from a History Nerd

It is generally accepted that Victoria Woodhull was the first woman to run for President of the United States, back in 1872.  Here we are, 136 years later, and we have yet to elect a woman president.

Woodhull was known as a woman who was radical and ahead of her time.  She advocated for the vote, abortion rights, working-class rights and free love. She refused to hide her "unconventional sexual behavior" which created constant attack and criticism from conservatives and feminists alike. In her defense, Elizabeth Cady Stanton said to her sisters, "Let us end this ignoble record and henceforth stand by womanhood.  If this present woman must be crucified, let men drive the spikes."

Stanton's position should remind us not to belittle or fight the feminists whose positions differ from our own.  It is in our diversity of ideas, opinions and approaches that we find the greatest possibility and strength. 

And let's end this 136 year struggle by electing a woman President!