Legal History of Equal Pay

The legal history of equal pay began in the early 20th century, gaining momentum with the 1963 Equal Pay Act in the United States, which aimed to eliminate wage disparities based on gender. This act mandated that men and women receive equal pay for equal work in the same establishment. Subsequent legislation, including Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, further reinforced anti-discrimination in employment. Over time, various court cases and reforms have sought to address ongoing inequality, highlighting the continued struggle for fair wages regardless of gender, and underscoring the importance of enforcement and awareness in achieving true equality.