Discuss the impact and significance of feminist movements in the Americas.

Candidates will offer a considered and balanced review that includes a range of factors contributing to the impact and significance of feminist movements in the Americas after 1945. While causal factors that had roots in the Second World War may have relevance, the focus should be on post-1945 effects of feminism. Topics that may be addressed include the influence of the feminist movement on other groups seeking full civil rights, such as the indigenous population, the impact of Betty Friedan, author of The Feminine Mystique, and others who challenged the status quo, access to abortion and contraceptives advancing the independence of women (though muted by religious barriers and male-dominated cultures in some countries), the appeal of political parties seeking support from women and greater acceptance by labour unions, which led to their advocacy for issues such as day care and equal pay.