Gloria Steinem was a towering figure in the 20th-century movement for women's rights, and this article will discuss why. As a persistent activist and journalist, Steinem's contributions to feminism have left an everlasting effect on the cultural landscape of the United States, encouraging women throughout the generations to fight for equality and change the status quo.

Childhood and the Beginning of Her Journalism Career:

Steinem, who was born on March 25, 1934 in Toledo, Ohio, attended Smith College and graduated in 1956. In 1963, she broke through with the publication of her scandalous expose "A Bunny's Tale," in which she detailed her time spent posing as a Playboy Bunny at a Playboy Club in New York City. The article garnered national attention for Steinem by highlighting the exploitation and sexism endured by the Bunnies.

After covering a speak-out in New York City in which women discussed their experiences with illegal abortions, Steinem came to embrace feminism and eventually found the inspiration to start "Ms." magazine in the late 1960s. In 1972, she co-founded "Ms." magazine to advocate for women's issues. It was groundbreaking because it was the first journal of its kind in the country to present the feminist perspective on a wide variety of topics.

Steinem entered the activist world, where she fought for women's rights on topics including abortion, fair pay, and child care. In 1971, she helped launch the National Women's Political Caucus, an organization with the mission of increasing women's representation in government. Due in large part to Steinem's leadership, feminism is now a topic of discussion in the mainstream media.

Steinem left an indelible mark on the feminist movement and American culture at large. Her work to advance women's rights has been instrumental in the passage of landmark legislation, including the Equal Rights Amendment. New generations of authors and activists have been energized by her trailblazing journalism to question authority and pursue justice.