Which influential feminist wrote "The Feminine Mystique"?

The influential feminist who wrote "The Feminine Mystique" is Betty Friedan. Published in 1963, this groundbreaking book is often credited with sparking the second wave of feminism in the United States. Friedan's work challenged the traditional roles of women in society and brought attention to the feelings of dissatisfaction that many housewives experienced during the 1950s and 1960s. She coined the term "the feminine mystique" to describe the societal expectation that women find fulfillment solely through homemaking and motherhood.

"The Feminine Mystique" caused a significant cultural shift by encouraging women to seek broader opportunities outside of the domestic sphere, thus contributing to the feminist movement. It prompted discussions around women's rights, gender equality, and the need for women to pursue education and careers. Friedan's assertions resonated with many women who felt unfulfilled in their assigned roles and became a rallying cry for feminist activism in the following decades. This book solidified Betty Friedan’s status as a central figure in feminist thought and activism.