Today in History, September 19

Every date holds stories that shaped our world. On September 19, there are several moments that stand out—not just for their drama, but for how they shifted societies, sparked ideas, or left a legacy. Here are three of them.

1. New Zealand Becomes First Country to Grant Women the Right to Vote (1893)

• What happened: On this date, New Zealand passed the Electoral Bill, making it the very first country in the world to grant national voting rights to women.

• Why it matters: This move was groundbreaking—not just for New Zealand, but for the broader women’s suffrage movement worldwide. It showed that sweeping political change toward equality was possible, even when entrenched norms fought against it.

• Legacy: It inspired suffrage activists elsewhere. Its impact rippled out through other Commonwealth countries and beyond. Today it’s a reminder of how political courage and reform can change the course of nations.

Women in New Zealand celebrating the anniversary of suffrage.

2. George Washington’s Farewell Address Published (1796)

• What happened: On September 19, 1796, George Washington’s Farewell Address was published. In it, he urged the young United States to avoid forming permanent alliances with foreign nations, to put national interest above party politics, and to cherish national unity.

• Why it matters: Washington’s words weren’t just a summary of his presidency—they were guidance for the future. As the first president, he set precedents for leadership, statesmanship, and governance, and his Farewell was a foundational text about how America should conduct itself.

• Legacy: While some of his advice has been debated over centuries (especially foreign policy), the address continues to be taught, quoted, and reflected upon. It helps define the tension in U.S. history between isolation vs. international engagement, unity vs. partisanship.

George Washington's Farewell Address

3. The Passing of U.S. President James A. Garfield (1881)

• What happened: President James A. Garfield died on September 19, 1881, two and a half months after being shot by Charles Guiteau in July of that year. His presidency was short, but his death had profound political implications.

• Why it matters: Garfield’s assassination highlighted weaknesses in the political system at the time—especially around civil service reform. Patronage (“spoils system”) was under question, and his death increased pressure to change how governments hired people for public offices.

• Legacy: The aftermath contributed to the passage of the Pendleton Civil Service Reform Act (1883), which introduced merit-based hiring for many federal jobs rather than political connections. In other words, his death helped trigger reforms still important in public administration today.

James Garfield

Reflections: What These Events Teach Us

• Progress takes courage. Whether granting women suffrage or standing up for political reform, meaningful change is often slow and faces resistance. But change can and does happen.

• Foundations matter. Washington’s guidance, suffrage laws, civil service reform—they all shaped institutions in ways that still affect how modern societies work.

• Legacies live on. These are not just stories from the past; they remain relevant. We still debate voting rights, democratic values, how nations relate to one another, and how public offices are filled.

Where to Explore These Moments Today

If you want to experience places connected to these events:

• New Zealand Women’s Suffrage locations in Wellington—museums and historic sites explore the suffrage movement.

• Mount Vernon or other Washington-era historic houses that cover Washington’s presidency and his Farewell Address.

• Washington, D.C. & Capitol Hill — where civil service reform and political history are deeply embedded in the institutions there.