Women’s rights have been a hot topic of conversation for centuries, with movements and protests fighting for equality and liberation for women all around the world. Learning about the history of women’s rights is essential in understanding the struggles and triumphs of women throughout history. If you’re interested in learning more about this important subject, here are 10 books you should read to gain a better understanding of the history of women’s rights in English.

1. “The Feminine Mystique” by Betty Friedan – This groundbreaking book sparked the second-wave feminist movement in the United States in the 1960s. Friedan’s exploration of the “problem that has no name” highlighted the dissatisfaction and oppression faced by many women in the post-war era.

2. “A Vindication of the Rights of Woman” by Mary Wollstonecraft – Considered one of the earliest works of feminist philosophy, Wollstonecraft’s book argued for women’s educational and social equality with men. Published in 1792, it remains a key text in the history of women’s rights.

3. “The Second Sex” by Simone de Beauvoir – This influential work by French philosopher Simone de Beauvoir explores the ways in which women have been defined and limited by societal expectations. Written in 1949, it laid the groundwork for much of the feminist theory that followed.

4. “Sister Outsider” by Audre Lorde – This collection of essays and speeches by Black lesbian feminist Audre Lorde addresses the ways in which race, gender, and sexuality intersect in the fight for social justice. Lorde’s powerful voice is a must-read for anyone interested in women’s rights.

5. “We Should All Be Feminists” by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie – Based on Adichie’s TED Talk of the same name, this short book argues for the importance of gender equality in our society. It’s a great introduction to modern feminism and its relevance in today’s world.

6. “The Color Purple” by Alice Walker – This Pulitzer Prize-winning novel tells the story of Celie, a young Black woman who overcomes abuse and oppression to find her own voice and strength. Walker’s powerful portrayal of Celie’s journey is a moving tribute to the resilience of women.

7. “The Hidden History of Women’s Ordination: Female Clergy in the Medieval West” by Gary Macy – This book explores the largely forgotten history of women’s ordination in the medieval Christian Church. Macy’s research sheds light on the ways in which women have challenged traditional gender roles throughout history.

8. “The Handmaid’s Tale” by Margaret Atwood – This dystopian novel imagines a future in which women are stripped of their rights and forced into servitude. Atwood’s chilling depiction of a society ruled by misogyny is a stark warning of what could happen if we fail to fight for women’s rights.

9. “A History of Their Own: Women in Europe from Prehistory to the Present” by Bonnie S. Anderson and Judith P. Zinsser – This comprehensive history of women in Europe traces the evolution of women’s roles and rights from ancient times to the present day. It’s a must-read for anyone interested in the long and complex history of women’s rights.

10. “Good Night Stories for Rebel Girls” by Elena Favilli and Francesca Cavallo – This collection of stories about real-life women who have changed the world is a great introduction to the history of women’s rights for young readers. The book celebrates the achievements of women from all walks of life and inspires girls to dream big and fight for their rights.

These 10 books offer a diverse range of perspectives on the history of women’s rights, from ancient times to the present day. By reading these works, you can gain a deeper understanding of the struggles faced by women throughout history and the progress that has been made in the fight for gender equality. Whether you’re a seasoned feminist or just starting to explore the topic, these books are sure to enlighten and inspire you in your own activism for women’s rights.