Susan B. Anthony and Elizabeth Cady Stanton found the National Woman Suffrage Association

Background. The American Equal Rights Association effectively dissolved after an acrimonious meeting in May 1869. This collapse led to the creation of two competing woman suffrage organizations. The National Woman Suffrage Association was formed in the aftermath of this split, establishing a new platform for women's rights advocacy distinct from the rival American Woman Suffrage Association.

Formation. On May 15, 1869, two days after the final AERA convention, Anthony, Stanton, and others formed the National Woman Suffrage Association. The organization was established in New York City, where Anthony and Stanton had previously published The Revolution. Stanton served as the president of the new association, while Anthony remained a primary leader.

Leadership. Elizabeth Cady Stanton was designated as the president of the National Woman Suffrage Association. Although Stanton held the official title, Susan B. Anthony effectively managed the organization's operations. Of the fifteen meetings between 1870 and 1879, Stanton presided at only four, leaving Anthony in charge of the day-to-day leadership.