Analysis of the British feminist movement from 1850 to 1975 reveals a constant struggle by feminists for equality in the face of legal and social restrictions and a corresponding lack of response by the British government to movement demands. The political organization of the feminist movement is described in four phases. During the first phase, from 1855-1900, feminists were ignored by British political parties. Feminists formed informal societies to deal with education, equal moral standards, sufferage, and employment. The efforts of women activists during the second phase (from 1890-1918) were largely directed toward obtaining votes and jobs for women. During this phase, the Labour party endorsed equal political rights for women, and the National Union of Women's Sufferage Societies and the Womens Social and Political Union replaced the informal societies of the 19th century. During the third phase, which began in 1918, feminists dealt with legal and political rights. However, their efforts were so diversified that they received little national attention until 1960 when the fresh ideology and tactics of the Women's Liberation movement again invigorated the British feminist movement. The fourth phase began in 1968. During this phase the Women's Liberation movement has challenged the Labour Party for leadership of the radical left. Feminist goals now include equal pay, job opportunities, education, day care centers, and free family planning services. Although review of advances made by feminists from 1850-1975 indicates various degrees of success due to tactics, the national political climate, specific movement goals, and expectations of movement leaders, a major advance can be noted in the incorporation of women's rights demands into the party platform of both major parties. (Author/DB)