Who was the first woman to be elected to the U.S. Congress?

Jeannette Rankin was the first woman elected to the U.S. Congress, taking office in 1917. This significant milestone came after women in several states earned the right to vote, which was a crucial factor in their ability to run for and hold political office. Rankin served as a representative from Montana and is particularly noted for her commitment to pacifism, famously voting against U.S. entry into both World War I and World War II. Her election was not just a personal achievement but also represented a broader movement toward gender equality in the political realm.

The other individuals listed did not hold elected office in Congress. Elizabeth Cady Stanton was a leading figure in the women's suffrage movement but never served in Congress. Katherine Wright, known for her involvement in aviation and as the sister of Orville and Wilbur Wright, was not a political figure in this context. Emma Watson is a contemporary actress and activist but has not held office in the U.S. Congress. Hence, Rankin's role as the first female congress member is an important historical fact that highlights the progress of women's participation in American politics.