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This Day in American History

August 26

1 historic event on this date

Amendment1920

19th Amendment Officially Certified

Secretary of State Bainbridge Colby officially certified the 19th Amendment early in the morning without ceremony. The amendment guaranteed women the right to vote, capping a movement that had begun at Seneca Falls in 1848.

Why It Matters

The certification completed the constitutional process of extending suffrage to women, doubling the potential electorate and representing one of the most significant expansions of democracy in American history.

Explore the Principles Behind the History

Every event in American history connects to the founding principles. Discover the ideas that shaped these moments.

View the 28 Founding Principles