Guided Primary Source Analysis: Science & the Suffragettes

Zoom into the top half of this newspaper page that contains only the article’s headline and subhead and photos and captions. Based on this information, explain the points you think the newspaper article will discuss.

Now read the article. What is the main point, or claim, of the article. List the arguments the author makes and the evidence he cites to support his claim.

Read about the history of the Richmond Times-Dispatch. Explain why you think the author’s audience would have believed his claim to be valid or invalid given the attitudes of the times. Then explain why you think the author’s claim would be valid or invalid in today’s society.

What other observations, reflections or questions does this source inspire? Let us know!