Equal Pay Act of 1963 in Issues & Controversies History

EQUAL PAY ACT OF 1963: Should Employers Be Required to Pay Women and Men Equal Wages?

Women have often earned less than men for the same work, even though they have long played a key role in the U.S. economy.  The feminist movement emerged after World War II (1939–1945). Employers were challenged for their unfair pay. Moreover, the feminist movement urged laws to change it.

In 1963, Congress debated the Equal Pay Act, a law that would guarantee women and men equal pay for doing equal work. On one hand, supporters argued that paying women lower wages for performing the same job constituted discrimination and violated their rights. Conversely, opponents argued that women needed special workplace accommodations. Specifically, they said this justified lower pay. Furthermore, they also said employers could set wages as they wished.

Should the Equal Pay Act be passed?

How to Engage Your Students in Debate

Let your students learn the facts and decide. Should women earn the same as men for the same work? Or is unequal pay justified? Be sure to check out Issues & Controversies in American History this month. Importantly, it offers a clear and unbiased look at the Equal Pay Act of 1963.

Issues & Controversies in American History is an accessible educational database that delivers dynamic, concise, and balanced coverage providing the background, outcome, and contemporary points of view for every major debate and conflict in American history.