>>>>>The role of women in nationalist struggles. Women played a very important role in nationalist struggles all over the world. They participated equally mostly in every movements. They faced torture of police but still they stood by their male counterparts. A large number of women participated actively in the political matters over the year. Sometimes they led the movements also, formed many political associations, founded newspapers and took part in political meetings and demonstrations. The most famous example is the French revolution where women participated equally as men. Liberty is personified as a women and also liberal nationalism proposed the idea of universal suffrage, leading to women's active participation in nationalist movements in Europe. So, on 18 May 1848, when the Constitution was drafted in the Frankfurt Parliament the controversial issue of the extending political rights to women was raised. Still women were deprived of suffrage during the election of the assembly and they were admitted in the Frankfurt Parliament assembly only as spectators. but this did not diminish their contribution to the national struggle. Delphine De Girardin, an educated woman, criticized by saying that if servants doing the household work were granted the right to vote then why not women who are mothers, housewives managing everything at home. Women were given little or no political rights, right to vote etc. till the end of 19th century.

The Role of Women in the Nationalist Struggle in Europe

Women played a significant role in the nationalist struggle in Europe during the 19th and early 20th centuries. They actively participated in various movements and campaigns, contributing to the fight for independence, equality, and women's rights. Here, we will discuss their involvement in three key areas: political activism, literature and journalism, and direct action.

1. Political Activism:
- Women participated in nationalist political parties and organizations, advocating for their nation's independence and sovereignty.
- They organized rallies, protests, and demonstrations, voicing their demands for self-determination and equal rights.
- Women's political associations emerged, such as the Irish Women's Franchise League in Ireland and the Women's Social and Political Union in the United Kingdom, which fought for women's suffrage as well as national independence.
- Some notable women leaders in nationalist movements include Constance Markievicz in Ireland and Emmeline Pankhurst in the UK.

2. Literature and Journalism:
- Women writers and journalists played a crucial role in shaping national identity and promoting nationalist ideals through their works.
- They wrote articles, essays, and novels that highlighted national history, culture, and the struggle for independence.
- Women's literary circles, such as the Polish "Enthusiasts" group and the Irish Literary Revival, emerged as platforms for nationalist discourse.
- Prominent female writers like Maria Konopnicka in Poland and Katharine Tynan in Ireland used their literary talents to inspire and mobilize the masses.

3. Direct Action:
- Women engaged in direct action, including acts of sabotage, espionage, and armed resistance.
- They acted as couriers, smugglers, and propagandists, carrying secret messages and distributing nationalist literature.
- Women also participated in armed conflicts, such as the Easter Rising in Ireland, where women like Countess Markievicz took up arms against British rule.
- Their involvement in direct action demonstrated their commitment to the nationalist cause and their willingness to sacrifice for their country's freedom.

Overall, women's contributions to the nationalist struggle in Europe were significant, despite facing societal and gender-based challenges. Their involvement in political activism, literature and journalism, and direct action helped shape the course of nationalist movements and laid the foundation for future advancements in women's rights. Women's participation in these struggles not only highlighted their determination and resilience but also challenged traditional gender roles and paved the way for greater gender equality in society.