On This Day

Emily Davison

suffragette and militant activist

Born: Died: English

Emily Wilding Davison (11 October 1872 – 8 June 1913) was an English suffragette who fought for votes for women in Britain in the early twentieth century. A member of the Women's Social and Political Union (WSPU) and a militant fighter for her cause, she was arrested on nine occasions, went on hunger strike seven times and was force-fed on forty-nine occasions. She died after being hit by King George V's horse Anmer at the 1913 Derby when she walked onto the track during the race.

Davison grew up in a middle-class family, and studied at Royal Holloway College, London, and St Hugh's College, Oxford, before taking jobs as a teacher and governess. She joined the WSPU in November 1906 and became an officer of the organisation and a chief steward during marches. She soon became known in the organisation for her militant action; her tactics included breaking windows, throwing stones, setting fire to postboxes, planting bombs and, on three occasions, hiding overnight in the Palace of Westminster—including on the night of the 1911 census. Her funeral on 14 June 1913 was organised by the WSPU.

Notable For

English suffragette and militant activist

Emily Davison's Historical Timeline

  1. Emily Davison is born

    Emily Davison, English suffragette and militant activist, known for english suffragette and militant activist, was born on 1872-10-11.

Associated Historical Events

Frequently Asked Questions

When was Emily Davison born?
Emily Davison was born on 1872-10-11 (English).
What is Emily Davison known for?
English suffragette and militant activist
What historical events involved Emily Davison?
Emily Davison was involved in 1 recorded historical event, including Emily Davison is born.
When did Emily Davison die?
Emily Davison died on 1913-01-01.

Related Years