Backlash: The Undeclared War Against American Women

First published in 1991, Backlash examines a decade-long antifeminist backlash against women's advances. Susan Faludi deconstructs myths about the costs of women's independence, including claims about a "man shortage," "infertility epidemic," "career burnout," and "toxic day care." She traces how these narratives circulated through Reagan-era politics, mass media, advertising, and popular culture. This new edition includes an introduction exploring backlash's role in the 2016 election and discussing the path forward for 2020 and beyond. Faludi notes that while some changes have occurred—the Internet has enabled new feminist voices, corporations promote gender equality, and a record number of women entered Congress in 2019—significant obstacles remain. The glass ceiling persists, women continue to face penalties for pursuing success, and reproductive rights face threats. The book examines why women's freedoms remain demonized and threatened. Winner of the National Book Critics Circle Award.