Analyzing the Issues

First-wave feminism arrived on the international scene in the nineteenth century, a time when women had very few rights as citizens and were largely controlled by a government with laws that protected and served men. Today, through the work of feminist movements, women have gained the right to vote and work, but the quest for social and economic equality remains. This text gives students insight into the fascinating history of the feminist movement and its leaders while presenting thoughtful analysis of feminist issues to help students think critically about the history and present need for feminism and women’s rights today.