History Daily: The First International Women’s Day

Hosted by Lindsay Graham

Introduction

In the episode titled "The First International Women’s Day," hosted by Lindsay Graham on History Daily, listeners are taken on a compelling journey through the origins and impact of International Women’s Day. Released on March 19, 2025, the episode delves into the pivotal events and influential figures that shaped this significant movement for women's rights. This summary captures the essence of the discussions, insights, and historical narratives presented in the episode.

1. The First International Women's Day in Vienna (March 19, 1911)

The episode opens on a crisp morning in Vienna, Austria, on March 19, 1911. Lindsay Graham sets the scene with a vivid portrayal of a young man driving his Ford Model T who encounters a massive march on the Ringstrasse, the grand boulevard encircling the city center. As he slows down, he observes hundreds of women chanting, waving red flags, and displaying banners advocating for women's suffrage, the end of workplace sex discrimination, and honoring the Paris Commune's progressive feminist ideals.

Graham describes the widespread nature of these demonstrations, with over a million women participating across Austria, Hungary, Denmark, Germany, and Switzerland. Despite differences in language and specific local demands, the unity of their voices underscores a collective call for gender equality. This day marks not only a singular event but the inception of what would become an enduring global movement.

2. The First National Women's Day in the United States (March 19, 1911)

Transitioning to the United States, Lindsay Graham narrates the groundwork laid by Teresa Malkiel in organizing the first National Women’s Day in America. The episode recounts events from February 28, 1909, in New York City, where Teresa, an activist with deep roots in the Socialist Party of America, spearheads a march of 2,000 participants advocating for better working conditions and fair pay.

Teresa's dedication stems from her experiences as a Jewish immigrant fleeing persecution in Russia, settling into the garment industry in New York, and rising as a prominent member of the Women's National Committee. Her efforts to bridge the gap between socialist groups and suffragists are highlighted, emphasizing her belief that true societal liberation is unattainable without the inclusion of women in the socialist movement.

A notable moment in the march occurs when Teresa addresses the crowd from atop milk crates at the Murray Hill Lyceum. She passionately declares, "The emancipation of a woman really means the emancipation of the human being within her" (07:45). This statement resonates deeply with the marchers, symbolizing the intertwined struggle for gender equality and broader human rights.

The success of this march surpasses Teresa’s expectations, laying a robust foundation for future activism and inspiring a national dialogue on women's rights.

3. Clara Zetkin and the Internationalization of Women's Day (August 26, 1910 – 1914)

The narrative then shifts to Copenhagen, Denmark, on August 26, 1910, where Clara Zetkin, a fervent German socialist and a leading figure in the global women's rights movement, attends the 2nd International Conference of Socialist Women. Surrounded by delegates from 20 countries, Zetkin proposes the establishment of an annual International Women’s Day, inspired by the success of the American march organized by Teresa Malkiel.

Clara emphasizes the importance of a unified protest day, stating, "Together on a single day of protest, they could speak together as one and amplify their shared demands for equality" (11:09). Her proposal garners unanimous support, setting the stage for the first International Women’s Day on March 19, 1911, witnessed by over a million women across Europe.

The episode chronicles the rapid spread of these demonstrations to countries like France, the Netherlands, Sweden, and Russia by 1913. However, the onset of World War I in 1914 casts a shadow over the movement. The war diverts attention and resources, causing many women's groups to pause their campaigns in support of the war effort. Clara Zetkin’s frustrations with the broader suffrage movement's focus reveal internal conflicts and differing priorities within the fight for women's rights.

4. The Russian Revolution and the Legacy of Women's Day (March 18, 1917)

Lindsay Graham then explores the profound impact of International Women’s Day on Russia, particularly its role in igniting the Russian Revolution. On March 18, 1917, amidst severe food shortages and harsh rationing in St. Petersburg, a Russian woman catalyzes a massive strike by rallying over 100,000 workers. This unprecedented display of solidarity forces Tsar Nicholas II to abdicate, ending over three centuries of Romanov rule and setting off a cascade of revolutionary events that lead to the establishment of the Soviet Union.

Graham highlights the significance of this protest, asserting that "Perhaps none of it would have happened if the workers of St. Petersburg had decided not to take to the streets in honor of International Women's Day, six years after the first such protest took place on March 19, 1911" (18:50). This linkage underscores the enduring legacy of the movement and its capacity to inspire monumental societal changes.

5. Conclusion: The Enduring Legacy of International Women's Day

The episode concludes by reflecting on the lasting influence of the first International Women’s Day. From its inception in Vienna and New York to its pivotal role in the Russian Revolution, the movement has continually evolved, inspiring generations of women to advocate for their rights and societal equality. The commitment and strategic efforts of leaders like Teresa Malkiel and Clara Zetkin are celebrated for laying the groundwork for ongoing struggles and advancements in gender equality worldwide.

Notable Quotes

• "The emancipation of a woman really means the emancipation of the human being within her." – Teresa Malkiel (07:45)

• "Together on a single day of protest, they could speak together as one and amplify their shared demands for equality." – Clara Zetkin (11:09)

• "Perhaps none of it would have happened if the workers of St. Petersburg had decided not to take to the streets in honor of International Women's Day, six years after the first such protest took place on March 19, 1911." – Lindsay Graham (18:50)

Conclusion

In this comprehensive exploration, History Daily illuminates the origins and significant milestones of International Women’s Day. Through detailed narratives and poignant quotes, Lindsay Graham effectively conveys the passion, struggles, and triumphs of the women who championed for equality. This episode not only educates but also inspires listeners to appreciate the historical foundations of ongoing gender rights movements.