According to Bell Hooks, "Feminism is a movement to end sexism, sexist exploitation, and oppression." To expand upon this quote, oppression means that one may not have the same opportunities as others may. During the 1960's, men were expected to portray a more masculine, aggressive identity. Females were expected to portray a more feminine and compassionate identity. These expectations led to male dominance in society. The feminist, as Bell Hooks states, worked and continues to work to put an end to patriarchal society patterns.
In the beginning of the 1960's, it was made clear that there was male dominance in society. That means that males would receive the higher paying jobs regardless of abilities--hiring came down to gender. Males ended up receiving a more enticing pay check and with that came power. In the 1960's the world for many women was limited. It was expected for a woman to marry in her early 20's, start a family, and commit her life to homemaking. Husbands would take charge of the earnings and property. During this time, it was difficult, to say the least, for a woman to work. Women were highly limited to occupations and were forced to take on jobs such as a nurse, teacher, or secretary. Women were also not encouraged to apply for professional programs, like medical schools. The working women that were paid, were paid less than men and women did not receive many work opportunities like men did. As a result of this, many women quit their jobs, unhappy with the circumstances, and were forced to be stay at home mothers.
The feminist movement began in the 1960's, focusing on dismantling workplace inequality, such as denial of access to better jobs and salary inequity. The movement was divided between young and old, particularly upper class females, conservative and radical. These women stressed that all members of this movement should be equal in status. One of feminism's greatest enemies was the enemy within.
