Today in History

What happened today in history? Important events, births and deaths.

26 November 2024

Women Given the Right to Vote in Municipal Elections

Historical Significance and Background

On November 26, 1934, women in the Republic of Turkey were granted the right to vote and run for office in municipal elections. This was an important step in the expansion of women's rights in Turkey.

During that time, women had limited political rights and were generally seen as second-class citizens in society. This situation increased the demand for women to have more voice in society and politics.

Development of the Event

Mobilization of Women

In the 1930s, women in Turkey began to actively engage in social, cultural, and political activities. Women's associations were established, magazines were published, and efforts were made to increase women's presence in education and the workforce.

First Right to Vote and Run for Office for Women

In 1930, women in Turkey were granted the right to vote and run for office in local elections. This was an important step for women to be better represented in political life. However, the right to vote and run for office in municipal elections had not yet been granted to women.

Occurrence of the Event

On November 26, 1934, a legislative amendment was made by the Grand National Assembly of Turkey, granting women the right to vote and run for office in municipal elections. This marked a significant turning point in the political participation of women in Turkey, with important social and political implications.

Consequences and Effects

Granting women the right to vote in municipal elections was a major step towards the expansion of women's rights in Turkey. The short-term effects of this event include:

Political Participation of Women

After gaining the right to vote and run for office in municipal elections, women began to be better represented in political life. Women could now actively participate in municipal councils and contribute to decisions regarding social issues.

Change in Social Perception

Granting this right to women brought about a significant change in the perception of women in society. Women having more voice in political and social life increased society's trust and appreciation towards women. Women's potential and abilities began to be valued more.

In addition, granting women the right to vote in municipal elections had long-term consequences:

Expansion of Women's Rights

Granting women the right to vote in municipal elections was a milestone in the expansion of women's rights in Turkey. This event contributed to women having more voice in society and politics, further advancing women's rights.

Social and Political Changes

The increased representation of women in political life strengthened the diversity and democratic structure of society. Decisions made in municipal councils became more inclusive and better reflected the needs of different segments of society.

Historical Significance and Reflections to Today

Granting women the right to vote in municipal elections serves as an example of Turkey's progress in the field of women's rights. The impacts of this event on the modern world are as follows:

Inspiring the Fight for Women's Rights

The struggle for women's rights in Turkey has been further strengthened by granting women the right to vote in municipal elections. This event has served as an inspiration for women in other countries and supported the efforts for the expansion of women's rights.

Strengthening Gender Equality in Society

Granting women the right to vote in municipal elections has contributed to increasing awareness of gender equality and moving society towards a fairer and more egalitarian structure. This event has empowered women in society and encouraged their greater participation in political processes.

Learnings Extracted

The successes achieved through granting women the right to vote in municipal elections offer important lessons from history. This event highlights the importance of efforts to strengthen society's diversity and inclusiveness. Women's participation in political processes helps society move towards a more just and democratic structure.

Frequently Asked Questions


Historical Significance and Background


On November 26, 1934, women in the Republic of Turkey were granted the right to vote and run for office in municipal elections. This was an important step in ...

Women Given the Right to Vote in Municipal Elections 1934 took place in

Women Given the Right to Vote in Municipal Elections happened in Turkey

Women Given the Right to Vote in Municipal Elections is a historically significant event that 1934 marked an important turning point in world history