The National Organization for Women (NOW) was established in 1966, arising from a growing awareness of women's rights issues in the United States. The founding meeting took place at the Third National Conference of the Commission on the Status of Women in Washington, D.C., where influential feminists recognized the necessity of a dedicated organization to address the systemic inequalities faced by women. Key figures like Betty Friedan, who had previously authored 'The Feminine Mystique', and other activists such as Pauli Murray and Shirley Chisholm played pivotal roles in its establishment. NOW's creation marked a significant turning point in the American feminist movement, consolidating numerous women's rights activists who had been advocating for change in various realms, such as legislation affecting labor and civil rights.

NOW's initial focus included workplace equality, reproductive rights, and an end to discrimination in education and employment. The organization began to develop key strategies, including lobbying Congress, mobilizing grassroots support, and igniting public dialogue about women's rights. The push for the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA) became one of NOW's central campaigns. As it grew, NOW established local chapters, creating a nationwide network that empowered women to take action locally and advocate for broader systemic change.

Throughout the late 1960s and into the 1970s, NOW worked on various legislative efforts and campaigns, including the push for better access to contraceptives, improved workplace conditions, and anti-discrimination laws. The organization's expansion into the public arena highlighted the complexities of the feminist movement, addressing intersectionality and the diverse challenges faced by women across races, classes, and sexual orientations. Over the years, NOW has remained a critical voice in the ongoing struggle for women's rights, representing millions of women nationwide and advocating for equality and social justice.