Millicent Fawcett
Leading the British women's suffrage movement; securing voting rights for women
Dame Millicent Garrett Fawcett (1847–1929) was a leading British feminist and political reformer who championed women's rights throughout her long career. Born into a progressive family, she became the leader of the National Union of Women's Suffrage Societies (NUWSS) and advocated for women's voting rights through constitutional and democratic means rather than militant tactics. Though initially disappointed by the limited 1918 suffrage victory that granted votes only to women over 30, Fawcett's persistent advocacy helped secure equal voting rights for all women in 1928, just months before her death. Her legacy extends beyond suffrage to include work on women's education, divorce reform, and economic independence. Fawcett remains an iconic figure in British feminist history, representing the power of sustained, organized political activism. Her famous motto, 'Courage calls to courage everywhere,' encapsulates the spirit of her lifelong dedication to equality and justice.
Political Leader
British
1847
1929
Thinking about the name
Millicent
Germanic origin
“Derived from the Old German Amalasuintha, meaning 'strong and industrious worker,' Millicent became a British classic through Norman influence. It was the name of saints and medieval nobility and has maintained quiet sophistication for over a millennium. Modern parents appreciate its strength-with-grace quality and vintage charm.”