Belva Ann Bennett Lockwood: Trailblazing Lawyer & Advocate

Month is Women's History Month, a time when we reflect on those female leaders who strove to leave society and the world a little better than when they found it. Belva Ann Bennett Lockwood was a trailblazing lawyer and Presidential candidate was one such woman. Belva was born into modest means, without wealth, social status, or access to a privileged education. Yet, through determination and grit, she made history as a pioneering attorney and the first woman to run a full-fledged presidential campaign.

MISS BELVA ANN BENNETT LOCKWOOD, LAWYER, WITH SEN. SOUTHERLAND; LIBRARY OF CONGRESS

Breaking Barriers in Law

In 1871, Belva, along with 14 other women, enrolled at National University Law School (now George Washington University), despite resistance from male students. After completing the program in just one year, she was denied her diploma solely because she was a woman. Undeterred, she appealed directly to President Ulysses S. Grant, who intervened, and she received her diploma a week later. In 1873, she was admitted to the District Court bar. Three years later, she sought admission to the U.S. Supreme Court Bar but was rejected. Refusing to accept defeat, she lobbied Congress for legislation to eliminate legal restrictions on women attorneys. Her persistent efforts led to the passage of the "Lockwood Bill" in 1879, granting women the right to practice before the Supreme Court. That same year, she became the first woman to argue a case before the highest court in the nation.

First Woman to Run for President

In 1884, Belva Lockwood became the first woman to run a full presidential campaign, decades before women had the right to vote. While the law barred women from voting, it didn’t prevent men from casting their ballots for her. She ran again in 1888, continuing to challenge societal norms and advocate for women's rights.

A Legacy of Advocacy

Beyond her legal achievements, Belva was a tireless advocate for women’s suffrage and gender equality, paving the way for future generations of female leaders. She remained active in the fight for women's rights until her passing on May 19, 1917—just three years before the ratification of the 19th Amendment granted women the right to vote.

Belva Lockwood’s legacy as a legal pioneer and political trailblazer continues to inspire those who challenge barriers and fight for equality.