This landmark collection of essays by scholars and activists compares the experiences of women in various countries, both historically and currently. Discussed are such topics as the significance of women's work in voluntary associations (Italy and Canada), in writing (France), under military dictatorship (Argentina), during a war of national liberation (Algeria), and in the Polish trade union Solidarity. This fresh vision of women's emancipation is presented in sweeping international scope. Contributors include Renata Siemienska, Marta Petrusewicz, Judith Astelarra, Gloria Bonder, Marie-Blanche Tahon, Michela Di Giorgio, Caroline Andrew, Naomi Black, Denise Boucher, Maria Belo, Micheline De Sève, Somer Brodribb, Margaret Gillett, and Elisabeth Badinter.