Feminism and anti-feminism

Question 1

Who was Betty Friedan ?

Answer 1

-Betty Friedan (1963), was a feminist activist and author of The Feminine Mystique

-Context: Critiqued the idealization of women as housewives and the limitations placed on middle-class white women in postwar America

-Significance: Helped launch second-wave feminism and co-founded the National Organization for Women (NOW). Her work transformed debates on gender roles and equality.

Question 2

Who was Phyllis Schlafly

Answer 2

Phyllis Schlafly (1970’s)- What/When: Conservative activist who led the opposition to the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA) in the 1970s.

-Context: Argued the ERA would harm families and undermine traditional gender roles.

-Significance: Played a key role in defeating the ERA and mobilizing the religious right. Helped shape the conservative backlash to 1960s feminism.

Question 3

What is the Me Too Movement?

Answer 3

The Me Too Movement (2017)What/When: Social movement against sexual harassment and assault, sparked by revelations about Harvey Weinstein.

Context: Empowered survivors to speak out across industries, especially via social media.

Significance: Transformed public discourse around power, gender, and accountability. Led to widespread cultural and institutional change.