The film Iron Jawed Angels captures the spirit and struggle of the American women's suffrage movement, focusing on the National Woman's Party's efforts under the leadership of Alice Paul and Lucy Burns. For educators and history buffs interested in engaging students with this critical period in history, a worksheet detailing key moments, characters, and themes can be a helpful resource. Here, we will delve into an extensive Iron Jawed Angels worksheet answer key, exploring its essential components and providing comprehensive responses to deepen understanding.
Introduction to Iron Jawed Angels
Iron Jawed Angels is a 2004 HBO film that chronicles the militant campaign by Alice Paul and Lucy Burns to secure the right to vote for American women. Here is an introduction to the worksheet, setting the stage for understanding the movie:
- Historical Context: The film is set in the early 20th century, a time when women's suffrage was an explosive issue. It highlights the shift from diplomatic efforts to more aggressive and confrontational strategies.
- Key Figures: Alice Paul and Lucy Burns are central, but the film also features other key figures like Carrie Chapman Catt, Inez Milholland, and various politicians and activists.
The Narrative Structure of the Movie
The movie is structured to portray the intense dedication and personal sacrifices of the suffragists:
- Beginning: The introduction of Alice Paul's return to America with a mission to push for women's suffrage.
- Middle: Depicting the organizing efforts, public protests, hunger strikes, and arrests of suffragists.
- End: The success with the passing of the 19th Amendment and the subsequent ratification.
Key Characters
The worksheet might ask for an identification of key characters and their roles:
| Character | Role |
|---|---|
| Alice Paul | Leader of the National Woman's Party, primary strategist for suffrage. |
| Lucy Burns | Close ally to Paul, involved in organizing and public speaking. |
| Carrie Chapman Catt | Leader of the National American Woman Suffrage Association, often at odds with Paul's tactics. |
| Inez Milholland | Symbolic figure for the movement, often leading marches and speeches. |
Additionally, the worksheet could ask for quotes or key scenes related to these characters:
- Alice Paul: "Deeds, not words."
- Lucy Burns: "We need a parade in Washington."
- Carrie Chapman Catt: "You'll have to wear men's clothes."
Historical Accuracy
While Iron Jawed Angels takes some creative liberties, it remains true to the essence of the suffrage movement. Here are some points to consider:
- The movie accurately portrays the Silent Sentinels protests outside the White House.
- It captures the Occoquan Workhouse and the brutal treatment of the women.
- The influence of World War I on the suffrage movement is depicted, though perhaps dramatized.
Themes of the Film
The worksheet might explore themes such as:
- Feminism: The fight for gender equality and the suffrage movement's role in this struggle.
- Political Activism: Showcasing different strategies from lobbying to militant activism.
- Racial Dynamics: While the film focuses on white suffragists, it hints at the racial divide in the movement.
✍️ Note: While the film highlights the suffrage movement, it's important to acknowledge the role of Black suffragists like Ida B. Wells and the complexities of intersectionality within the movement.
Cinematic Techniques
Discuss how the movie uses cinematic techniques:
- Montage: To show the passage of time and the growing movement.
- Color Palette: Using stark colors to reflect the harshness of the suffragists’ environment.
- Symbolism: The use of prison bars, picket signs, and the American flag.
Understanding the cinematic language helps viewers appreciate how the film conveys its message.
The Iron Jawed Angels worksheet and its answer key provide a comprehensive exploration of a pivotal chapter in American history. By examining characters, historical accuracy, themes, and the film's narrative and visual storytelling, students can gain a deeper appreciation for the struggle that led to women's voting rights. This insight not only educates about history but also encourages critical thinking about activism, rights, and the power of perseverance.
What is the significance of the “Night of Terror” in Iron Jawed Angels?
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The “Night of Terror” in Iron Jawed Angels refers to the brutal treatment of suffragists at the Occoquan Workhouse, highlighting the lengths to which authorities went to suppress the women’s suffrage movement. This event galvanized public opinion in favor of the suffrage cause.
Why was the National Woman’s Party formed?
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The National Woman’s Party was formed by Alice Paul and Lucy Burns to employ more militant tactics than the more conciliatory approaches of other suffrage organizations like the National American Woman Suffrage Association, which they felt were too slow and insufficiently aggressive in advocating for the vote.
How did the film address the issue of racial inequality within the suffrage movement?
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The film does touch on racial inequality but focuses primarily on white suffragists. It shows a moment where Black suffragists march separately, illustrating the racial divide in the movement, but critics argue the film could have done more to highlight the contributions of Black women to suffrage.
