Ep 1. Episode 1

In the first episode of Mrs. America, viewers are transported back to the 1970s, a time of political and social upheaval in the United States. The episode introduces us to a range of key characters who will feature throughout the series, including Phyllis Schlafly, the conservative activist who is determined to stop the passage of the Equal Rights Amendment; Gloria Steinem, the feminist journalist and activist who is leading the charge for equal rights; and several other women on both sides of the political and social divide.

The episode kicks off with a clip from a speech that Phyllis Schlafly delivers to a group of women in Illinois. Schlafly is an anti-feminist who believes that the ERA will destroy the traditional American family and lead to a range of other social ills. However, when Schlafly realizes that the ERA could actually become law, she becomes even more determined to stop it.

Meanwhile, we also meet the characters on the other side of the debate. Gloria Steinem is a feminist icon who is passionate about equality for all women. We see her making speeches, writing articles, and connecting with other activists who share her values. Alongside her is Betty Friedan, another women's rights icon who is working tirelessly to ensure that the ERA is passed and women gain constitutional protection from discrimination.

Throughout the episode, we are introduced to a range of other characters, including Brenda Feigen, Bella Abzug, and Shirley Chisholm. These women are all committed to fighting for equal rights and play important roles in shaping the feminist movement during this turbulent time.

One of the most interesting aspects of the episode is the way in which it explores the different motivations and beliefs of the various characters. While Phyllis Schlafly is fiercely opposed to the ERA, for example, she is also shown to be fighting for something that she believes is important. We see her struggling to balance her political ambitions with her obligations to her family, and we also see the support and admiration she receives from other conservative women who feel the same way.

Overall, the first episode of Mrs. America is a gripping and insightful exploration of the political and cultural issues that were prevalent during the 1970s. The show does an excellent job of introducing viewers to the key players in the feminist movement, as well as those who were fighting against it. With strong performances from the cast and excellent writing, it is clear that this will be a must-watch series for anyone interested in political history or social justice.