Latter-day Saint Life

How a Mormon Pioneer Woman Became the Nation's First Female State Senator

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Read how Martha Hughes Cannon, a mother, a champion for women's suffrage, and a Mormon became the country's first female state senator. 

On Nov. 3, 1896, Martha Hughes Cannon was elected to represent Utah's 6th Senate District, defeating a group of candidates that included her own husband and earning the title of the United States' first woman state senator.

In addition to a two-term senator, Cannon was many things: a Welsh-born immigrant, a Mormon pioneer, a highly educated and successful doctor, a polygamous wife, a mother of three and a vocal champion for women's suffrage.

Here's a look back at her eventful life and the experiences that shaped her political career.

Lead image from the Deseret News
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