A survey traces the historical evolution of women's social, legal, and intellectual status from prehistoric conditions through medieval oppression to modern efforts for emancipation. It documents patterns of subordination including loss of property rights, sexual exploitation, and persecution for alleged witchcraft, while outlining gradual gains secured through education, professional participation, and political activism. Blending anthropological and historical description with polemical argument, the author credits women's own energy for much progress and calls on men to support further reform, emphasizing universal access to education, civil rights, and full civic participation.