Protest Events: Cause or Consequence of State Action? The U.S. Women's Movement and Federal Congressional Activities, 1956-1979
Authors: Sarah Soule, Doug McAdam, John McCarthy and Yang Su
Abstract
Using data compiled from a variety of different sources, we seek to answer questions about the emergence and outcomes of women's collective action in the United States between 1956 and 1979. In particular, we examine hypotheses derived from political opportunity and resource mobilization theories about the emergence of women's protest. We also examine the consequences of women's collective action on congressional hearings and House and Senate roll call on women's issues. We find support for arguments about the effect of resources on the emergence of protest. We also find mixed support for arguments about the effect of political opportunity on the emergence of protest. Finally, we find little support for arguments about the effects of women's collective action on congressional hearings and House and Senate roll call votes on women's issues.
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