INTRO: Emily Davison remains one of the most iconic figures in the British suffragette movement, remembered for her unwavering commitment to women’s rights and her dramatic actions that highlighted the struggle for suffrage. Her life was marked by activism, courage, and tragedy, and her contributions continue to resonate in discussions about gender equality today. Here are ten significant facts about this remarkable woman.
1. Emily Davison was a prominent British suffragette leader.
Emily Davison was born on February 11, 1872, in Blackheath, London, and she grew to become a leading figure in the women’s suffrage movement in the UK. Having been influenced by her education and the social injustices she witnessed, she joined the Women’s Social and Political Union (WSPU) in 1906. Under the leadership of Emmeline Pankhurst, Davison quickly distinguished herself as an outspoken advocate for women’s rights, utilizing her skills in public speaking and organizing to rally support for the cause.
2. She famously protested by throwing herself in front of a horse.
One of the most infamous events associated with Emily Davison occurred during the Epsom Derby on June 4, 1913. In a bold act of protest, she threw herself in front of King George V’s horse, Anmer, as it raced towards the finish line. This dramatic gesture was intended to draw attention to the suffragette cause and the urgent need for women to gain the right to vote. Although she was severely injured in the incident, her actions ignited public debate about women’s suffrage and the lengths to which activists would go to secure their rights.
3. Davison’s tragic death occurred at the 1913 Derby race.
Emily Davison succumbed to her injuries just days after the Derby incident, passing away on June 8, 1913. Her death was a shocking moment in the suffragette movement and garnered extensive media coverage. The incident served to galvanize supporters and critics alike, highlighting the extreme measures some suffragettes were willing to take. Davison’s legacy as a martyr for the cause was established, and she became a symbol of the struggle for women’s rights in the early 20th century.
4. She was arrested multiple times for her suffragette activities.
Throughout her activism, Davison faced numerous arrests and imprisonments due to her involvement in various suffragette actions. She was first arrested in 1909 for participating in a protest and subsequently spent time in jail for other acts of civil disobedience, such as window smashing and hunger strikes. Each arrest served to strengthen her resolve and commitment to the cause, as she often used her time in prison to further advocate for women’s suffrage and to raise awareness about the brutal treatment of suffragettes in custody.
5. Emily Davison hid in the House of Commons to protest.
In a remarkable demonstration of her determination, Davison managed to hide in the House of Commons on one occasion in 1911. She concealed herself in a broom cupboard overnight to ensure that she could witness the parliamentary debates surrounding women’s suffrage. Her act of civil disobedience underscored her desperation for the rights of women to be addressed at the highest levels of government, illustrating the lengths to which she was willing to go to advocate for change.
6. She attended both Oxford and King’s College London.
Emily Davison was well-educated, having attended the prestigious Royal Holloway College and later, the University of Oxford. In 1891, she became one of the first women to earn a diploma from the university, studying modern history. Her academic achievements equipped her with the knowledge and skills necessary to articulate the suffragette cause effectively. Davison’s education played a crucial role in shaping her ideological beliefs about social justice and women’s rights.
7. Davison’s funeral drew thousands of mourners and supporters.
Following her untimely death, Emily Davison’s funeral on June 14, 1913, attracted a significant crowd of mourners, with thousands of people attending to pay their respects. The funeral procession was marked by a display of suffragette colors—purple, white, and green—symbolizing dignity, purity, and hope. This overwhelming show of support highlighted the impact she had made on the suffragette movement and the public’s recognition of her sacrifice for women’s voting rights.
8. She was a fierce advocate for women’s voting rights.
Emily Davison’s commitment to women’s suffrage was unwavering. She believed in the necessity of women having an equal voice in political matters and worked tirelessly to advocate for this right. Through her activism, she participated in rallies, gave speeches, and wrote articles, all aimed at raising awareness about the importance of women’s suffrage. Her fierce determination and dedication to the movement made her a respected leader among her peers and an enduring symbol of the fight for equality.
9. Emily Davison’s legacy inspired later feminist movements.
Davison’s willingness to sacrifice her life for the cause of women’s rights left a lasting impact on future generations of feminists. Her story of courage and resilience has inspired countless women to continue the fight for gender equality in various forms, from political representation to social justice. The narrative of her life and tragic death serves as a powerful reminder of the struggles faced by suffragettes and remains relevant in contemporary discussions regarding women’s rights.
10. She is buried in the graveyard of St. George’s Church.
Emily Davison was laid to rest in the graveyard of St. George’s Church in East Finchley, London. Her grave has become a site of pilgrimage for suffragette supporters and advocates for women’s rights. A memorial stone dedicated to her was erected, commemorating her contributions to the suffrage movement and serving as a reminder of the ongoing fight for gender equality. Her resting place is a testament to her legacy and the enduring significance of her activism.
OUTRO: Emily Davison’s life was a remarkable story of dedication, sacrifice, and advocacy for women’s rights. As a prominent leader in the suffragette movement, her legacy continues to resonate, inspiring future generations to challenge injustices and fight for equality. Through her courage and determination, Davison not only contributed to the movement of her time but also paved the way for ongoing discussions about gender equity in society today.