Women - developments in the Law in Britain 1839-1937

Women of `unblemished character` given access to their children in the event of separation or divorce.

Women obtained limited access to divorce, usually on a specific cause other than adultery. Rights of access to children after divorce extended. Women given rights to their property after a legal separation or a protection order given as a result of husband`s desertion.

Allowed women to retain £200 of their earnings. The same year the Education Act provided elementary education for girls as well as boys.

Allowed women to own and administer their own property.

Women no longer a `chattel` but an independent and separate person.

Women could be made sole guardian of children if husband died.

Women eligible to vote for parochial councils.

Women allowed to become Councillors.

Women allowed to vote if over 30 and Women allowed to become MPs.

Opens all professions to women except the Church. Lady Astor (second women elected to Parliament) takes her seat in the House of Commons.

Husband only allowed access to children if a desirable influence.

Required husband and wife to be treated as separate individuals in any property transactions.

Women over 21 given vote in parliamentary and local elections.

Made desertion and Insanity grounds for divorce.