Woman's Christian Temperance Union

Woman's Christian Temperance Union (WCTU) is an active international temperance organization that was started in the United States in 1873. It was influential in the temperance movement, and its primary objective is the total abstinence from alcohol.

History

The Woman's Christian Temperance Union was founded in November 1874 in Cleveland, Ohio after a series of local temperance campaigns led by women. The organization was initially led by Annie Wittenmyer, with Frances Willard taking over in 1879. Under Willard's leadership, the WCTU began to advocate for a broad social reform agenda that included women's suffrage, labor laws, and public health.

Objectives and Activities

The primary objective of the WCTU is the promotion of total abstinence from alcohol. The organization also advocates for the legal prohibition of alcohol and has been instrumental in the passage of the Eighteenth Amendment, which established Prohibition in the United States.

In addition to its temperance work, the WCTU has been involved in a variety of social reform activities. These include advocating for women's suffrage, child labor laws, and public health initiatives. The WCTU also operates educational programs and provides resources for individuals and families affected by alcohol abuse.

Influence

The WCTU has been a significant influence in the temperance movement, both in the United States and internationally. Its advocacy for prohibition was a major factor in the passage of the Eighteenth Amendment, and its ongoing work continues to shape alcohol policy and public attitudes towards alcohol.

The WCTU's broad social reform agenda has also had a significant impact. Its advocacy for women's suffrage, labor laws, and public health has contributed to significant changes in these areas.

See Also

• Temperance movement
• Prohibition in the United States
• Frances Willard
• Annie Wittenmyer