Here's a breakdown of her key achievements:
* Founding and Leading the Women's Christian Temperance Union (WCTU): In 1885, Sheppard joined the WCTU, a group advocating for women's rights and temperance (opposition to alcohol). She quickly became a prominent leader, using the platform to raise awareness about women's suffrage.
* Leading the National Franchise Movement: Sheppard spearheaded the national suffrage campaign, organizing rallies, writing articles, and lobbying politicians.
* Strategically Using Petitions and Public Campaigns: She collected tens of thousands of signatures on petitions, organized public meetings and protests, and even published a newspaper dedicated to the cause.
* Winning the Vote for Women: Through her unwavering dedication, Sheppard and her fellow suffragists finally achieved their goal in 1893, making New Zealand the first country in the world to grant women the right to vote.
Therefore, Kate Sheppard's fame comes from her role as a leading figure in the New Zealand women's suffrage movement. She is remembered as a trailblazer and champion for women's rights whose legacy continues to inspire people today.