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Mary Wollstonecraft
During the European Enlightenment, Wollstonecraft writes a book entitled A Vindication of the Rights of Men, a response to a book by Edmund Burke. This arguably starts first-wave feminist philosophy. -
Seneca Falls
The beginning of American feminism starts in July of 1848 with the Seneca Falls Convention. Here, abolitionists and feminists author a Declaration of Sentiments which stresses fundamental rights, such as the right to vote. -
Becoming a Democracy
As more and more men are drafted into the war, women begin to take over their jobs. They show that they can work just as hard as men. Finally, the Nineteenth Amendment is ratified. -
Rosie the Riveter
During World War II, while millions of American men are fighting, women take over. They begin working in military factories, making munitions and other military goods. It becomes clear that women can work just as hard and effectively as men. This becomes the second-wave of feminism. -
NOW is Founded
Betty Friedan helps found the National Organization for Women (NOW). It is the first and largest women's liberation organization. -
"Unbought and Unbossed"
Rep. Shirley Chisolm runs for president, using the slogan "unbought and unbossed'. She brings with her an age of feminism, stressing women's liberation. -
Roe Vs. Wade
Once again, females are the center of argument. Conservatives are angered by Roe Vs. Wade, and begin to hold pro-life riots. -
ERA Dies
In 1923, Alice Paul proposes the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA). However, it does not pass until 1972. Women everywhere rejoice.
But in 1982, Religious Right successfully mounts an opposition to the ERA, based on oppositions to abortion and women in the military. :( -
The Third Wave
In 1993, an author named Rebecca Walker, a young, Jewish, African American, bisexual woman works hard to bring back female determination, and coins the term "third-wave feminism". -
TODAY!
Now, more than ever, people are taking charge and bringing equality to everyone.
