Women have always been a man's dependent. These two sexes have never shared the world in equality. Even in our day and age women are still heavily suppressed. I would have to say that things have certainly changed since the 1700's, 1800's, and early 1900's. Women today are progressing into the world with freedom. They have the power to be who they want to be and are no longer told who they should be. Women are getting better jobs, higher political status, and more importantly, a role in society to which they have no boundaries. Women are no longer stuck in the house. Instead they are providing for their families not only emotionally, but also financially. Today gender identity is becoming less important. This issue is central not only to public policy, but also too private relationships as well. We wouldn't be where we are today if it wasn't for the hard work and determination of people like Mary Wollstonecraft, John Stuart Mill, Emmiline Pankhurst, and Simone de Beauvoir. Most women are no longer facing the hardships of the 1700's, 1800's, and early 1900's. With limited education, economic rights, or social respect, women were excluded of having a voice in society. As they grew older a woman's intellect gave way to beauty and social graces. At this time the only way they could succeed in the world was by marriage. Women were thought as only existing for men. Men respected women, because they were their servants, made their clothes and food, and took care of their family. In their struggle for equal rights, women faced strong opposition. Opponents argued that feminist demands would threaten society by undermining marriage and family. The Government went to great lengths to suppress women by refusing them an education.
             Keeping them in ignorance would subdue them. When feminism first began the only demands made by women were a better education and a respectful position in society.
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