Meaning: The quote by Birch Bayh, a politician, refers to a significant period in American political history. Birch Bayh was a prominent figure in the Democratic Party and served as a U.S. Senator from Indiana from 1963 to 1981. The quote reflects a pivotal moment in his career and sheds light on the political dynamics at the time.

The context of the quote can be traced back to the mid-1970s, during the presidency of Gerald Ford. Ford, a Republican, assumed the presidency in 1974 following the resignation of Richard Nixon in the wake of the Watergate scandal. As the country grappled with the aftermath of Watergate, Ford faced challenges from various factions within his own party, including the conservative or "right-wing" elements referenced in Bayh's quote.

The phrase "an effort made by a right-wing element in the President's party to get him to turn back the clock" suggests an attempt by conservative members of the Republican Party to push President Ford toward policies or positions that reflected a desire to return to earlier, more traditional or conservative values. This could have encompassed a range of issues, including social, economic, or foreign policy matters.

Moreover, the mention of being "intimately involved with a group of women" indicates that Bayh was likely referring to a coalition or alliance of women with whom he worked closely during this period. It is plausible that these women were also involved in advocating against the efforts of the right-wing faction and were instrumental in advancing a more progressive agenda.

In the broader historical and political context, the mid-1970s marked a period of significant social and political change in the United States. The women's rights movement, which had gained momentum in the preceding decades, continued to push for gender equality and reproductive rights. Additionally, the country was grappling with issues such as the aftermath of the Vietnam War, economic challenges, and ongoing civil rights struggles.

Birch Bayh's involvement with a group of women during this time suggests that he was aligned with progressive forces that sought to counter the conservative push within the Republican Party. His reference to the effort to "turn back the clock" underscores the tension between those advocating for progress and those seeking to maintain or revert to traditional values and policies.

It is worth noting that Birch Bayh himself was a proponent of progressive policies, particularly in the realm of civil rights and gender equality. He was a key figure in the passage of the landmark Title IX legislation, which prohibited gender discrimination in education programs and activities receiving federal financial assistance. Bayh's collaboration with women's groups may have been related to his advocacy for gender equality and women's rights.

In conclusion, Birch Bayh's quote captures a moment of political upheaval and ideological conflict within the Republican Party during the mid-1970s. His reference to being involved with a group of women underscores the role of diverse coalitions in shaping political discourse and advocating for progressive change. The quote serves as a reminder of the complex and dynamic nature of American politics, as well as the pivotal role of individuals and groups in shaping the course of history.