Is Gloria Steinem A-List?

CIA India Operation

Steinem worked for Independent Research Service, a CIA-funded organization, recruiting American students to attend communist youth festivals. This controversial early career phase was not publicly known until later.

Playboy Bunny Exposé

Steinem's undercover journalism piece 'A Bunny's Tale' exposed working conditions at the Playboy Club and brought her recognition as an investigative journalist. This established her credibility in New York journalism circles.

Women's Liberation Article

Her article 'After Black Power, Women's Liberation' articulated feminist goals and gained national attention. Steinem became a sought-after speaker and a prominent voice in the emerging feminist movement.

Ms. Magazine Launch

Co-founding Ms. magazine created the first mainstream feminist publication, with the preview issue selling out in days. This made Steinem the public face of feminism and significantly increased her influence and income through speaking fees.

Outrageous Acts Book

Her essay collection 'Outrageous Acts and Everyday Rebellions' became a bestseller. Steinem was at the height of her influence as a feminist icon, commanding high speaking fees and maintaining celebrity status.

Revolution from Within

'Revolution from Within' focused on self-esteem, marking a shift toward personal empowerment. While commercially successful, some critics felt it diluted her political activism, and her mainstream cultural influence began to wane.

Surprise Marriage

Steinem married David Bale at age 66, surprising many given her long advocacy for women's independence. While still respected, she was increasingly seen as an elder stateswoman of an earlier feminist era.

Presidential Medal of Freedom

President Obama awarded Steinem the Presidential Medal of Freedom, recognizing her lifetime of activism. This honor cemented her legacy status, though she was no longer at the forefront of contemporary feminist movements.

The Glorias Biopic

A biographical film 'The Glorias' about Steinem's life was released, starring Julianne Moore. The film renewed interest in her legacy among younger generations and reinforced her status as a feminist icon.

Feminist Icon Legacy

At 92, Steinem remains an active writer and occasional speaker, still engaged with feminist causes. She is well-known and respected as a pioneering second-wave feminist leader, maintaining B-tier status as a historical figure whose work continues to influence contemporary feminism.