Phyllis Schlafly

Definition

Phyllis Schlafly was a conservative activist, author, and lawyer known for her strong opposition to the women's liberation movement in the 1960s and 1970s. She gained national prominence for her campaign against the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA), arguing that it would undermine traditional family values and gender roles. Her efforts significantly influenced public discourse about women's rights and sparked a backlash against feminist ideals during a transformative period in American society.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Schlafly founded the Eagle Forum in 1972, an organization that mobilized grassroots opposition to the ERA and promoted conservative family values.
2. She argued that the ERA would eliminate laws designed to protect women and undermine the traditional family structure.
3. Schlafly's activism was pivotal in the defeat of the ERA, which ultimately failed to be ratified by the required number of states by its deadline in 1982.
4. Her views resonated with many women who felt alienated by the feminist movement, leading to a significant divide among women regarding their roles and rights.
5. Phyllis Schlafly authored several books and was a prominent speaker on conservative radio and television, influencing public opinion and policy well into the late 20th century.

Review Questions

• How did Phyllis Schlafly's opposition to the Equal Rights Amendment reflect broader societal attitudes towards women's roles during her time?
  • Phyllis Schlafly's opposition to the Equal Rights Amendment highlighted a significant divide in societal attitudes toward women's roles during the 1960s and 1970s. Many women supported feminist ideals seeking equality, while Schlafly represented those who believed in preserving traditional family structures. Her arguments resonated with individuals who feared that changing gender roles could lead to societal instability, revealing deep-seated cultural anxieties about feminism and its implications for American families.
• Analyze how Phyllis Schlafly's activism shaped the conversation around women's rights and family values in America.
  • Phyllis Schlafly's activism fundamentally shaped the conversation around women's rights by introducing a counter-narrative to the prevailing feminist discourse. By positioning herself as a defender of traditional family values, she mobilized conservatives who felt threatened by the changes advocated by feminists. Her success in rallying support against the ERA demonstrated how powerful grassroots organizing could be in influencing public policy and opinion, leading to a resurgence of conservative ideology that emphasized traditional gender roles.
• Evaluate the long-term impact of Phyllis Schlafly's efforts on contemporary discussions surrounding gender equality and women's rights.
  • The long-term impact of Phyllis Schlafly's efforts is still felt today as contemporary discussions surrounding gender equality often grapple with her legacy. Schlafly's opposition to the ERA has contributed to ongoing debates about women's rights, illustrating how resistance can shape legislative progress. Her influence can be seen in current conservative movements that advocate for family-oriented policies while challenging feminist initiatives, highlighting the complexities of achieving gender equality amidst diverse ideological beliefs.

Related terms

Equal Rights Amendment (ERA): A proposed constitutional amendment aimed at guaranteeing equal legal rights for all American citizens regardless of sex, which faced significant opposition from conservative groups.

Women's Liberation Movement: A social and political movement that emerged in the 1960s, advocating for women's rights, including reproductive rights, workplace equality, and an end to gender discrimination.

Conservative Movement: A political movement in the United States that seeks to preserve traditional institutions and values, often in opposition to liberal and progressive changes.