Portrait of Emmeline Pankhurst

Emmeline Pankhurst

Suffragette leader

Modern influential 94 sayings

Sayings by Emmeline Pankhurst

We have to be extremists in order to get our point across.

Early 1900s — Attributed, justifying militant actions
Wisdom Unverifiable

There is no more dangerous or disturbing factor in the body politic than a great class of people who are disinherited and who know it.

Early 1900s — From a speech
Political Unverifiable

The women of England have been patient too long.

Early 1900s — Speech
Wisdom Unverifiable

We were not asking for the vote as a favour; we were asking for it as a right.

1914 — My Own Story
Political Unverifiable

The militancy of men, through all the centuries, has drenched the world with blood.

1913 — Speech in America, 'Freedom or Death'
Life & Death Unverifiable

What is the use of fighting for a vote if we are not fit to vote?

Early 1900s — Rhetorical question, challenging opponents' arguments
Political Unverifiable

It is a fact that we have never had to face a more determined or resourceful foe than the British government.

1914 — My Own Story
Political Unverifiable

I have been in jail for things that men are applauded for.

Early 1900s — Attributed, highlighting double standards
Wisdom Unverifiable

We are not going to be content with mere promises; we want deeds.

Early 1900s — Speech
Wisdom Unverifiable

The last thing that I would say to you is this: Don't be afraid.

1913 — Closing remarks of 'Freedom or Death' speech
Wisdom Unverifiable

If a woman is to be a factor in the state, she must have a voice in its affairs.

Early 1900s — Attributed, simple logical argument
Wisdom Unverifiable

We have to do things you don't like, because that is the only way to get your attention.

Early 1900s — Implicit justification for militant tactics
Wisdom Unverifiable

The condition of women is such that it is their duty to rebel, to stand in the way of the government, to break its laws, if you like.

1913 (approx) — Speech, similar to 'Freedom or Death'
Political Unverifiable

I am what you call a hooligan.

1912 (approx) — Said in court or publicly, embracing the label defiantly
Wisdom Unverifiable

We are not cowards; we are not afraid to die.

Early 1900s — Speech, demonstrating resolve
Wisdom Unverifiable

We have to fight for every inch of ground.

Early 1900s — Attributed, reflecting the struggle
War & Conflict Unverifiable

The government has made us militant.

1914 (approx) — My Own Story or speech, shifting blame to authorities
Political Unverifiable

We have thrown down the gauntlet to the government.

Early 1900s — Speech or writing, declaring open challenge
Political Unverifiable

I have known women, when I was a girl, who worked for their living, and they were considered rather improper.

1914 — My Own Story, highlighting societal shifts
Wisdom Unverifiable

We are not asking for privilege, we are asking for justice.

Early 1900s — Common theme in her argumentation
Justice & Rights Unverifiable
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