Which of the following was a driving force behind feminist movements in the 19th century?

The chosen answer emphasizes the significant role that the push for education and employment equality played in driving feminist movements during the 19th century. During this period, many women began advocating for their right to work and receive an education, recognizing that access to both would empower them socially and economically. The establishment of women's schools and colleges was a crucial step toward achieving these goals, as it allowed women to pursue higher learning and professional careers, which were largely denied to them previously.

Moreover, this focus contributed to broader societal changes, challenging the prevailing gender norms that relegated women to the domestic sphere. As more women sought educational and employment opportunities, they began asserting their rights and calling for changes in laws and social practices, which laid the groundwork for future advancements in gender equality. The commitment to promoting equal opportunities in education and the workforce was a foundational aspect of the 19th-century feminist movements, making it a key driving force in this transformative era.