What were the most significant reform movements from 1820 to 1860? Did they have anything in common?

In the mid-1800s several movements were organized to reform society. To reform something is to change it for the better. These movements were caused in part by the Second Great Awakening, a renewal of religious faith in the early 1800s. Groups tried to reform many parts of American society, but the two most important were the abolitionist movement and the women’s rights movement.

Abolitionist Movement:

The goal of the abolitionist movement was to end slavery. They believed in racial equality and wanted a quick end to slavery.

Women’s Rights Movement:

Many abolitionists also joined the women’s rights movements. Although the movement became organized at the Seneca Falls Convention in 1848 and women began winning some rights, they did not achieve the right to vote until 1920.

Temperance Movement:

Movement to stop the sale of alcohol
Led by women

Alcohol was blamed for many of society’s ills

Education:

“Education then, beyond all other devices of human origin, is the great equalizer of the conditions of men”

Horace Mann – father of public education

Other Reform Movements:

Labor movement – rights for workers
Prison and hospital reform – led by Dorothea Dix