Final answer:
Despite patriarchy, women gained power and influence through social and political reforms, challenging discriminatory laws and actively participating in various movements.
Step-by-step explanation:
Despite the persistence of patriarchy, women exercised more power and influence than in previous periods due to social and political reforms.
Increasing numbers of women fought for their rights, challenged discriminatory laws, and actively participated in key social, economic, and political movements.
They moved from the private sphere to the public sphere, contributing their knowledge and experiences to shape the world around them.
While power and influence were more accessible to white middle-class women, progress was made by women across different backgrounds.