Evening Republican, Volume 23, Number 34, Rensselaer, Jasper County, 7 February 1920 — Women Are Not ‘Persons’ According to English Law [ARTICLE]

Women Are Not ‘Persons’ According to English Law

“Person” In the dictionaries is described as “an individual human being.” But it is not so in England from a legal standpoint, as women do not come within the class. This was revealed when the Royal Astronomical Society of London decided to admit women as fellows of the council. The plan was found to be impossible until the society had its charter altered. Eliglbles for election in the society’s by-laws were described as “persons,* and when legal opinion was obtained it was decided that a “person” was .strictly of the masculine, sex. The ’ change was made In the charter and the cjever women who had distinguished themselves In stargasing were a* mitted to the society. ■ ■ •- • \