Betty Friedan, born Bettye Naomi Goldstein, emerged as a pivotal figure in the American feminist movement with her groundbreaking work, The Feminine Mystique, published in 1963. Her efforts and writings are often recognized for igniting the second wave of American feminism in the 20th century. Friedan's influence extended beyond her literary contributions; in 1966, she co-founded the National Organization for Women (NOW) and served as its first president, asserting the need for women to participate fully and equally in American society alongside men.

Her activism did not stop there. In 1970, Friedan organized the nationwide Women's Strike for Equality to commemorate the 50th anniversary of women obtaining the right to vote in the United States. The strike sought to widen the feminist movement's reach, with the march in New York City alone attracting over 50,000 participants. The following year, she was instrumental in founding the National Women's Political Caucus. Friedan also played a vital role in advocating for the Equal Rights Amendment and other women's rights reforms. Despite her strong stance on various issues, Friedan was critical of the abortion-centered positions of many liberal feminists and was known for her critique of the extremist excesses of some feminists in her later works, such as The Second Stage (1981).

Friedan's work had a lasting impact on feminism and American society. She remained an influential author and activist until the late 1990s, authoring six books and holding firm in her critiques of polarized and extreme factions within feminism. Her legacy as a central figure in American feminism is undisputed.