Defeat of the Equal Rights Amendment
At a glance:
- Series: Great Events from History: North American Series
- Categories: Government and Politics, Women’s Issues, Social Issues, Reform, and Protest
- Subcategories: Civil Rights, Minority Rights, Minorities, Feminism, Feminists, Women’s Rights, Laws, Acts, Legislation
- Curriculum: American History 1951-present, Women’s History
- Geographical Location: Washington, D.C.
- Date: July 7, 1982
Article abstract: Although the ERA fails to achieve ratification, it prompts the passage of other legislation designed to curtail discrimination against women and minorities.
Summary of Event
On March 22, 1972, Senator Sam Ervin, a leading ERA opponent, acknowledged his “overwhelming defeat.” Raising his fists, he intoned, “Father, forgive them, they know not what they do.” Minutes later, the Senate passed the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA) by 84 to 8. The House of Representatives had already passed it by 354 to 23.
The ERA had been pending...
[The entire page is 1541 words long]
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