Betty Friedan

About

Betty Friedan was a pivotal American feminist writer and activist, best known for her groundbreaking book The Feminine Mystique, published in 1963. This work challenged the societal norms that confined women to roles as homemakers and sparked the second wave of American feminism. Born on February 4, 1921, in Peoria, Illinois, Friedan grew up in a Jewish household and faced anti-Semitism. She pursued a degree in psychology from Smith College and later worked as a journalist for various publications, including Federated Press and UE News. Friedan co-founded the National Organization for Women (NOW) in 1966 and served as its first president, advocating for women's equality and rights. She also played a key role in establishing the National Association for the Repeal of Abortion Laws (NARAL) in 1969. Through her writings and activism, Friedan addressed issues like reproductive rights and gender equality, leaving a lasting impact on feminist movements. Her later works include The Second Stage and The Fountain of Age. Friedan passed away on February 4, 2006, but her legacy continues to influence contemporary feminist discourse.