Feminism is defined by Merriam-Webster as 'the doctrine advocating social, political, and all other rights of women equal to those of men.' Feminism was an idea that became known in the Western world in the late 1700's, and continues to grow in size and reputation today. The feminist movement, as it stands, has been divided into three waves.
First Wave Feminism
The first wave of feminism took place in Great Britain, Europe, and America, at the start of the 19th century- continuing on to the year of 1919. It is commonly believed that the first wave feminist movement ended with the 19th amendment to the United States Constitution. In the 1800's, feminists were campaigning for their rights to property, rights to selective marriage, to freedom from their husbands, and a decent education.
By the start of the 1900's, a new issue arose- the right to vote. At this point women were proven to be powerful individuals, capable of creating reform, and therefore willing to take on the United States Government in a battle for justice lasting over 20 years. In 1919, the United States Federal Government added the 19th Amendment to the Constitution, granting women the right to vote. The first wave of feminism was complete.
Second Wave Feminism
The second wave of feminism started in the late 1960's extending to the late 1980's, calling for more reform- brought on by the vast realization that women have not yet acquired equal rights. Much like the first wave of feminism, the second wave started in the United States, Great Britain, and Europe. Unlike the first wave, however, second wave feminists united worldwide for equal rights across the globe.
This was due to recent advancements in technology, such as international travel and phone lines. This was also the point in time in which feminists branched out into different divisions, formed for different variations of reform. Second wave feminists recognized issues such as job inequality, and the immensely patriarchal society in which they thrived. It is a commonplace belief that second wave feminism began with Betty Friedan's book The Feminine Mystique, exposing the inequalities that women had to endure at the time.
Third Wave Feminism
Third wave feminism began in the 1990's and still continues today. Third wave feminism challenges previously accepted definitions of beauty and femininity, and continues to fight for equal rights. Through the development of the PC, third wave feminists are more able to keep tabs on important political and social issues debasing their gender worldwide. This wave of feminism fights for reproductive rights (e.g the rights to birth control, and abortions), despises the use of 'female' words in a derogatory sense, and raises awareness for the rising level of sexual harassment throughout the world.
Riot grrrls
The riot grrrl movement is a sector of third wave feminism. It is a form of punk lifestyle that promotes female independence and free expression of sexuality. Riot grrrls are famous for creating controversial music, art, and literature that inspires women worldwide. Some well renowned riot grrrl bands include Bikini Kill, L7, Free Kitten, Huggy Bear, and Le Tigre.
Today
Today, the feminist movement continues to grow. Women, men, and womyn around the world join together for equal rights and fair treatment. The movement has come a long way since the 18th Century, and it has only to grow.
Arie Loring - A+ bloggista
