The first ERA (Equal Rights Amendment for Women) was introduced in Congress in 1923. It was not until 1972, that it passed in the Senate. It then had to be ratified by 38 states within 7 years. When Betty Ford . was suddenly propelled into the First ladyship when her husband became President with the resignation of Richard Nixon in the summer of 1974, she placed herself in the forefront of those campaigning for its passage. She gave speeches, contacted state legislators, and influenced her husband to proclaim "Woman's Equality Day" urging ERA ratification. Even with a three year extension, the ERA failed by 3 states.