Focus on: Betty Friedan

Life of Betty Friedan

Born Bettye Naomi Goldstein on February 4, 1921, in Peoria, Illinois.
Graduated from Smith College in 1942 with a degree in psychology.
Worked as a journalist and labor union activist before focusing on women's issues.
Married Carl Friedan in 1947 and had three children. The couple later divorced in 1969.

Published "The Feminine Mystique" in 1963.
The book highlighted the widespread unhappiness of women in the 1950s and 1960s, despite living in material comfort and being married with children.
The Feminine Mystique challenged the notion that women could find fulfilment solely through homemaking and motherhood.
It argued that women were being socially conditioned to accept these limited roles, which stifled their potential and aspirations.

Friedan described "the problem with no name" as the widespread dissatisfaction and sense of unfulfilment experienced by many suburban housewives.
This problem stemmed from societal expectations that confined women to domestic roles, denying them opportunities for personal growth and career advancement.
Friedan believed that society and the media largely ignored this issue, leading many women to feel isolated and ashamed of their feelings.

Co-founded the National Organisation for Women (NOW) in 1966, becoming its first president.
NOW aimed to promote equal rights for women through legal action, lobbying, and public demonstrations.
Played a key role in organising the Women's Strike for Equality in 1970, which advocated for equal opportunities in employment and education, as well as access to childcare and reproductive rights.
Continued to be an active voice in the feminist movement, advocating for policies that supported gender equality.

Criticised the pervasive sexism and discrimination that limited women's opportunities and reinforced traditional gender roles.
Argued that the media perpetuated unrealistic and restrictive images of women, contributing to the widespread dissatisfaction among housewives.
Challenged the notion that a woman's worth was tied to her role as a wife and mother, advocating for broader recognition of women's capabilities and ambitions.
Called for societal changes that would allow women to pursue careers and personal interests without facing discrimination or judgment.

Advocated for Women's Rights: Friedan's work and activism reflected the growing movement for gender equality and women's rights in the 1960s.
Challenged Traditional Roles: She challenged women's traditional roles as solely homemakers and mothers, advocating for broader opportunities.
Highlighted Unspoken Issues: By addressing "the problem with no name," Friedan brought attention to many women's issues that were not publicly discussed.
Promoted Education and Careers: Encouraged women to pursue education and careers, reflecting the increasing participation of women in the workforce.
Organised Feminist Activism: Co-founding NOW and organising protests demonstrated her leadership in the feminist movement.
Critiqued Media Representations: Criticised how media portrayed women, aligning with the broader cultural critique of the 1960s.
Influenced Legislation: Her activism contributed to the passage of laws aimed at reducing gender discrimination, such as the Equal Pay Act.
Empowered Women: Friedan's work empowered many women to seek greater fulfilment beyond traditional domestic roles, influencing future generations.

The Feminine Mystique: Betty Friedan's groundbreaking book highlighted many housewives' dissatisfaction in the 1950s and 1960s.

The Problem with No Name: Friedan's term for the widespread sense of unfulfillment among suburban housewives.

National Organisation for Women (NOW): A feminist organisation co-founded by Friedan that aimed to promote equal rights for women.

Sexism: Prejudice or discrimination based on a person's sex, often against women.