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Estelle B. Freedman

No Turning Back: The History Of Feminism And The Future Of Women

In "No Turning Back: The History of Feminism and the Future of Women," Estelle B. Freedman provides a comprehensive and engaging account of the feminist movement from its origins in the 19th century to the present day. Freedman, a distinguished historian and professor at Stanford University, draws on a wealth of primary and secondary sources to offer a nuanced and insightful analysis of the complex and multifaceted history of feminism. The book is divided into three parts, each of which focuses on a different era in the history of feminism. The first part, "The Long Nineteenth Century," covers the period from the 1830s to the 1920s and explores the emergence of feminist consciousness and activism in the United States and Europe. Freedman examines the struggles of early feminists to gain basic rights and freedoms, such as the right to own property, to vote, and to control their own bodies. The second part, "The Age of Women's Liberation," covers the period from the 1960s to the 1980s and focuses on the resurgence of feminist activism in the United States and around the world. Freedman explores the diverse and often conflicting strands of feminist thought and practice that emerged during this period, from the radical feminism of groups like the Redstockings and the Women's International Terrorist Conspiracy from Hell (WITCH) to the more mainstream feminism of organizations like the National Organization for Women (NOW). The third part, "The Global Age of Feminism," covers the period from the 1990s to the present day and examines the ways in which feminism has evolved and adapted to a rapidly changing global landscape. Freedman explores the challenges and opportunities facing feminists in the 21st century, from the rise of neoliberalism and the erosion of the welfare state to the emergence of new forms of activism and resistance. Throughout the book, Freedman emphasizes the importance of intersectionality, highlighting the ways in which race, class, sexuality, and other factors have shaped the history of feminism and continue to influence its future. She also underscores the need for feminists to remain vigilant and engaged in the face of ongoing challenges and injustices, arguing that the struggle for gender equality is far from over. In conclusion, "No Turning Back" is a must-read for anyone interested in the history of feminism and the ongoing struggle for gender equality. Freedman's clear and compelling prose, her deep knowledge of the subject matter, and her commitment to intersectional feminism make this book a valuable contribution to the field.