35 Facts About Emily Davison

Early Life and Education

Emily Davison's early years set the stage for her later activism. Here are some key facts about her beginnings:

1. Born on October 11, 1872, in Blackheath, London, Emily Wilding Davison was the daughter of Charles Davison and Margaret Caisley.
2. She attended Kensington High School and later studied at Royal Holloway College, but had to leave due to financial difficulties after her father's death.
3. Emily later enrolled at St Hugh's College, Oxford, where she studied English literature but did not receive a degree because women were not awarded degrees at that time.

Activism and Suffragette Movement

Emily Davison became a prominent figure in the fight for women's suffrage. Her dedication and actions were remarkable:

4. She joined the Women's Social and Political Union (WSPU) in 1906, a militant organization campaigning for women's right to vote.
5. Emily was known for her extreme tactics, including setting fire to postboxes and throwing stones at politicians' windows.
6. She was arrested nine times and went on hunger strikes seven times, enduring force-feeding as a result.
7. In 1909, she hid in a cupboard in the House of Commons overnight to claim she was the first woman to "stay" in Parliament.

The Epsom Derby Incident

One of the most famous events in Emily Davison's life was her tragic end at the Epsom Derby:

8. On June 4, 1913, Emily attended the Epsom Derby and stepped onto the racetrack during the race.
9. She was struck by King George V's horse, Anmer, and sustained fatal injuries.
10. Emily died four days later, on June 8, 1913, at Epsom Cottage Hospital.
11. Her motives for stepping onto the track remain debated; some believe she intended to attach a suffragette flag to the horse, while others think it was a protest.

Legacy and Impact

Emily Davison's actions left a lasting impact on the suffrage movement and beyond:

12. Her funeral on June 14, 1913, was a massive event, with thousands of suffragettes marching in her honor.
13. Emily's death brought significant attention to the women's suffrage movement, highlighting the lengths to which activists would go for their cause.
14. She is remembered as a martyr for women's rights, with memorials and plaques commemorating her life and work.
15. In 1999, a plaque was placed in the cupboard where she hid in the House of Commons, recognizing her contribution to the suffrage movement.

Personal Traits and Beliefs

Emily Davison was known for her strong personality and unwavering beliefs:

16. She was deeply religious and believed her actions were morally justified.
17. Emily was an accomplished writer, contributing articles to the WSPU's newspaper, "Votes for Women."
18. She was also a talented speaker, often giving speeches to rally support for women's suffrage.
19. Emily believed in education for women and advocated for equal opportunities in all aspects of life.

Controversial Actions

Emily Davison's methods were often controversial, even among her fellow suffragettes:

20. She once attempted to disrupt a public meeting by shouting down a speaker, which led to her arrest.
21. Emily was known to carry a hammer in her handbag, ready to break windows as a form of protest.
22. She once set fire to a postbox, resulting in a prison sentence.
23. Her extreme tactics sometimes caused friction within the WSPU, with some members feeling her actions were too radical.

Recognition and Honors

Emily Davison has been honored in various ways for her contributions to women's rights:

24. A blue plaque commemorates her at her birthplace in Blackheath, London.
25. In 2013, the centenary of her death was marked by numerous events and exhibitions celebrating her life and legacy.
26. Emily's story has been featured in books, documentaries, and films, ensuring her legacy endures.
27. The Emily Davison Memorial Project works to educate people about her life and the suffrage movement.

Family and Personal Life

Despite her public persona, Emily Davison had a personal life that influenced her activism:

28. She was very close to her mother, Margaret, who supported her suffrage activities.
29. Emily had three siblings, and her family background was relatively affluent, which allowed her to pursue education and activism.
30. Her father's death when she was young had a profound impact on her, both emotionally and financially.

Final Resting Place

Emily Davison's final resting place is a site of pilgrimage for many suffrage supporters:

31. She is buried in St Mary's Churchyard in Morpeth, Northumberland.
32. Her gravestone bears the WSPU slogan, "Deeds not words," reflecting her belief in action over rhetoric.
33. The site is visited by those who wish to pay their respects to a key figure in the fight for women's rights.

Cultural Impact

Emily Davison's life and actions have had a lasting cultural impact:

34. She has been portrayed in various media, including the 2015 film "Suffragette," where she was played by actress Natalie Press.
35. Emily's story continues to inspire activists and feminists around the world, serving as a powerful example of dedication and sacrifice for a just cause.

Emily Davison's Legacy

Emily Davison's actions left a lasting impact on the suffrage movement. Her dedication and bravery highlighted the lengths to which women were willing to go for their rights. By stepping in front of the king's horse, she brought global attention to the cause. Her sacrifice wasn't in vain; it played a part in the eventual granting of voting rights to women in the UK. Davison's story reminds us of the power of individual actions in driving societal change. Her legacy continues to inspire those fighting for equality and justice today. Remembering her contributions helps keep the spirit of activism alive. So, next time you think about the right to vote, think of Emily Davison and the countless others who fought tirelessly for that privilege. Her story is a testament to courage and the relentless pursuit of justice.