Betty Friedan: Author of The Feminine Mystique Dies at 85

Betty Friedan was an American feminist writer and activist. Born Bettye Goldstein on February 4, 1921, in Peoria, Illinois, she graduated from Smith College.

Her book The Feminine Mystique (1963) challenged the idea that women should find fulfillment only as wives and mothers, and is credited with launching the second wave of feminism. She co-founded the National Organization for Women in 1966 and served as its first president.

She also helped found the National Women's Political Caucus. Friedan died of congestive heart failure in Washington, D.C., on February 4, 2006, her 85th birthday.

Achievements: Author of The Feminine Mystique (1963), founder of NOW (1966).

Birth: February 4, 1921 - Peoria, Illinois.

Profession: Writer and activist.

Interesting Facts: She died on her birthday.