Women's Social and Political Union (WSPU)
The Women's Social and Political Union (WSPU) was launched in 1903 and became one of the most well known groups campaigning for women's suffrage. It was founded by Emmeline Pankhurst and her daughters Christabel and Sylvia in Manchester. The WSPU became famous for their militant tactics, civil disobedience and hunger strikes in prison.
Their motto 'Deeds not Words' was taken very literally as their members were known to set off bombs, attack Parliament, start fires and one suffragette even destroyed artwork in the National Gallery.
Clara Giveen
- Lived in Winchester Lodge, Cowley Mill Road, Uxbridge.
- Active member of the Uxbridge WSPU.
- Gave a number of talks as part of her leadership roles in the WSPU.
- Was arrested and imprisoned 7 times between 1911 and 1913. She served time in Holloway Prison and took part in hunger strikes.
Image description
- Clara Elizabeth Giveen NPG x45564
Copyright to National Portrait Gallery