The significance of the second wave of feminism in the 1960s lies in its focus on broader issues of gender equality beyond just voting rights. Emerging during a time of social upheaval, this wave addressed workplace discrimination, reproductive rights, and societal norms surrounding femininity. It mobilized women’s rights activists, leading to landmark legislation such as the Equal Pay Act of 1963 and the creation of organizations like the National Organization for Women (NOW). This period fundamentally transformed societal views and policies regarding women's roles, paving the way for future advancements in women's rights.