At the heart of the women’s suffrage movement is the all-American desire to be independent – the desire to map our own course and be unfettered by anyone who violates our individual conscience. Here’s to the brave suffragettes who boldly persuaded our political leaders to give women the same independence as their male peers. In honor of the ratification of the 19^th Amendment – which gives women the right to cast their own ballots – this day in 1920, here are some of our favorite quotes from liberty-loving pioneer Susan B. Anthony.

5. “There never will be complete equality until women themselves help to make laws and elect lawmakers.” ―Susan B. Anthony

4. “I shall earnestly and persistently continue to urge all women to the practical recognition of the old Revolutionary maxim. Resistance to tyranny is obedience to God.” – Susan B. Anthony

3. “I declare to you that woman must not depend upon the protection of man, but must be taught to protect herself, and there I take my stand.”―Susan B. Anthony

2.“I think the girl who is able to earn her own living and pay her own way should be as happy as anybody on earth. The sense of independence and security is very sweet.” ― Susan B. Anthony

1.“Independence is happiness.” ― Susan B. Anthony