Conclusion

Abstract

Abstract The pro-choice movement is a remarkable reform movement that succeeded first in legalizing abortion and later in remaining mobilized to become a significant force in American politics. I have argued that the staying power of the movement is due in large part to its development of formalized organizational structures and professional leadership. At the same time, and in part as a result of these structural changes, the movement managed to maintain a grass-roots presence. An equally important countermovement aroused by the pro-choice movement also aided the mobilization of pro-choice forces even while limiting their ability to bring about changes beyond the legalization of abortion. This chapter examines the implications of this account of the pro-choice movement for more general theories of social movements.