In the 19th century, women primarily occupied domestic roles, focusing on home and family. Many were expected to adhere to the Victorian ideal of womanhood, which emphasized virtues like piety, purity, and submissiveness. Education for women was limited, though some began to advocate for greater access to learning and professional opportunities. The century also saw the rise of the women's suffrage movement, as women began to demand the right to vote and participate in public life. Notable figures like Susan B. Anthony and Elizabeth Cady Stanton emerged, pushing for legal reforms and greater equality, laying the groundwork for future advancements in women's rights.