The story details many events that have shaped our country and our future. Events such as the Civil War, Reconstruction, the Cold War, and other events have impacted us both positively and negatively. One event that has had a significant impact on our society and brought challenges is the Equal Rights Amendment. So the article I chose is called Equal Rights Amendment Passes Congress, But Fails to Be Ratified. In 1923, the Equal Rights Amendment was introduced in the United States. This happened after women were given the right to vote by the Nineteenth Amendment. However, the challenge posed by the Equal Rights Amendment had gained very little support, so much so that unions did not support it because it would have a negative impact on the protections already achieved for women workers. In the 1940s, when there was some support, Congress opposed passing this amendment. One aspect that this amendment changed was equal rights for African Americans. With much revision, Congress passed the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which protected minorities and women. Shortly thereafter, the National Organization for Women formed by Betty Friedan had the goal of adding an equal rights amendment to the Constitution. After it was passed, it had to be ratified, and within a year, thirty states had passed the amendment. While this amendment benefited many women, not all supported it. One leader who opposed this was Phyllis Schlafly, who argued that this amendment would pose a threat to families, mothers, and the special protections some enjoyed. An example of his argument was exemplified in the case of Roe v. Wade. This case was an example of what could happen if the courts started interfering in society... middle of paper... and women. With so much progress for women and progress made over the years, I believe some inequalities still remain. However, inequalities arise from individual behavior and social practices, and not from our system of government. Since the Constitution clearly defines equal rights, this leaves room for zero tolerance of inequality based on morals and values. I have come to believe that it depends on the person defining their own morals and values, which leads them to believe in equal rights. In conclusion, it appears that the attempt to ratify the Equal Rights Amendment was for the benefit of women, but now it appears to address the problems of men in society as well. In order to achieve true equality between men and women, such issues of both sexes should be addressed seriously. It's not just about equal rights for women, but now for men too.