Opposition to the ERA Flashcards

Who led the national campaign against the ERA in the early 1970s?

Phyllis Schlafly, a conservative activist. She founded STOP ERA.

What did the group name STOP ERA stand for?

Stop Taking Our Privileges.

Which types of people or groups most often opposed the ERA?

Conservative women, religious groups, some state lawmakers, and some trade unionists.

What did opponents claim the ERA would do about the military draft?

They said it would force women to be drafted and serve in combat.

What did opponents fear about alimony and widow benefits under the ERA?

They warned women could lose alimony and special widow benefits.

Why did some labour activists oppose the ERA?

They feared it would end protective laws on hours and heavy work for women.

How did ERA opponents try to stop state ratification?

They lobbied state lawmakers, sent letters, and held rallies.

Which part of the process did opponents target after Congress passed the ERA in 1972?

State lawmakers, because 38 states had to approve it.

How did religious arguments help the opposition to the ERA?

Some churches said the ERA threatened traditional family and gender roles.

What impact had opposition had by 1973?

It slowed new ratifications; Nebraska even voted to rescind in 1973.

Previous Topic
Back to Lesson
Next Topic

You’ve used 8 of your 10 free revision notes for the month

Sign up to get unlimited access to revision notes, quizzes, audio lessons and more

Sign up