Silent Sentinels

Okay kiddo, have you ever seen someone standing very still and quiet, like they were watching over something? That's kind of like what a silent sentinel is, except they do it on purpose and for a specific reason.

During a very important time in history, some women in America wanted to have the right to vote. They thought it was unfair that only men could vote and make decisions for the whole country. But lots of people didn't agree with them and they were treated very badly.

So these women decided to stand guard outside the White House, which is where the President lives, to peacefully show how important it was for them to have the right to vote. They stood perfectly still, not speaking or moving, almost like statues. That's why they were called "silent" sentinels.

They did this every day for months, rain or shine. Sometimes they even got arrested or hurt by mean people who didn't like them. But they kept standing there, to show how important it was to them and to encourage others to join their cause.

Their peaceful protest worked and eventually women were given the right to vote. So those silent sentinels made a big difference in history!