Phyllis Schlafly

Phyllis Steward Schlafly (August 15, 1924 – September 5, 2016) was an American conservative activist, author, and political commentator who became one of the most influential and controversial figures in American political history. Born in St. Louis, Missouri, Schlafly earned a law degree despite the barriers women faced in the legal profession and built a career as a commentator and activist. She rose to prominence in the 1970s by leading the campaign against the ratification of the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA), arguing against it from a conservative perspective and helping to prevent its passage—a singular achievement that established her as a powerful political force. Schlafly founded the Eagle Forum, a conservative organization dedicated to promoting traditional family values, military preparedness, and constitutionalist principles. Throughout her long career, she authored numerous books, wrote a syndicated newspaper column, and became a prominent speaker at conservative events. While her positions on feminism and women's rights were controversial and opposed by many, Schlafly's effectiveness in organizing and mobilizing conservative voters demonstrated significant political acumen and influence that shaped American politics for decades.