Meaning: The quote "Men and women were declared equal one morning and everybody could divorce each other by postcard" by Kate Millett, an American feminist writer and activist, encapsulates the profound societal changes that occurred during the feminist movement of the 20th century. It reflects the rapid transformation in gender relations and the legal system, as well as the impact of these changes on the institution of marriage and divorce.

Kate Millett was a prominent figure in the second-wave feminist movement, which emerged in the United States in the 1960s and focused on issues such as gender equality, reproductive rights, and sexual liberation. Her quote captures the essence of the feminist struggle for gender equality and the subsequent legal reforms that sought to address the unequal treatment of men and women in marriage and divorce.

The phrase "Men and women were declared equal one morning" refers to the legal and social changes that occurred as a result of feminist activism and advocacy. In many countries, including the United States, laws were reformed to grant women equal rights in marriage, including the right to own property, access to education and employment, and the ability to make independent decisions without the consent of their husbands. These changes represented a significant shift away from the traditional patriarchal structure of marriage and family, in which women were often relegated to subordinate roles.

The second part of the quote, "everybody could divorce each other by postcard," highlights the impact of these legal changes on the institution of marriage and divorce. Prior to the feminist movement, divorce laws were often biased against women, making it difficult for them to leave unhappy or abusive marriages. However, with the push for gender equality, divorce laws were reformed to make the process more accessible and equitable for both men and women. This led to a significant increase in the divorce rate as individuals, particularly women, were empowered to leave marriages that were no longer fulfilling or safe.

The reference to divorcing "by postcard" underscores the idea that divorce became a more streamlined and simplified process, reflecting the broader societal shift towards individual autonomy and personal freedom. The quote suggests that the legal and social changes brought about by the feminist movement had a profound impact on the institution of marriage, making it easier for individuals to dissolve their unions and seek independence and self-fulfillment.

Overall, Kate Millett's quote serves as a poignant reminder of the transformative power of the feminist movement in reshaping gender relations, marriage, and divorce. It reflects the struggle for equality and the subsequent legal reforms that sought to dismantle traditional gender roles and empower individuals to seek greater agency and autonomy in their personal lives. The quote captures a moment of profound social change and the lasting impact of the feminist movement on the institution of marriage and divorce.