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Betty Friedan

Definition

Betty Friedan was an American feminist writer and activist known for starting what is commonly known as Second Wave Feminism with her book "The Feminine Mystique". She co-founded and served as the first president of the National Organization for Women (NOW).

Analogy

Think of Betty Friedan as a chef who stirs up a new recipe. Her book, "The Feminine Mystique", stirred up conversations about women's roles in society, much like how a chef can create a new dish that gets everyone talking.

Related terms

Second Wave Feminism: A period of feminist activity and thought that began in the United States in the early 1960s and lasted roughly two decades.

National Organization for Women (NOW): An American feminist organization founded in 1966.

"The Feminine Mystique": A book written by Betty Friedan which is often credited with sparking the beginning of second-wave feminism in the United States.



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© 2024 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.

AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.