The New Zealand suffrage movement began in the late 19th century, inspired by similar groups in the British Empire and United States. The right to vote was largely sought as a way to improve social morality and by extension improve women's safety and quality of life. Therefore the suffrage campaigns were intertwined with the prohibition of alcohol movement. This was the focus of some resistance, with the movement being often portrayed as puritanical and draconian in the local press. This also led to politicians who supported the alcohol industry opposing women's suffrage, like the MP for South Dunedin Henry Fish.