Key figures associated with the feminist movement in the 20th century include notable activists like Betty Friedan, Gloria Steinem, and Audre Lorde. They advocated for gender equality, reproductive rights, and broader social reforms. The movement sought to challenge systemic patriarchy and push for women's rights within various domains, including the workforce, education, and politics. This activism led to significant legal and cultural changes, such as the introduction of policies promoting gender equality and heightened public awareness of women's issues, shaping the broader landscape of social justice movements.