ERA sunk by switcheroos in N.C. Senate

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On this day in 1977: Despite last-minute long-distance lobbying by President Jimmy Carter, the North Carolina Senate defeats the Equal Rights Amendment by a 26-24 vote.

It is the second time the ERA has failed in the Senate by that vote, each time falling victim to a switch by a Charlotte senator ostensibly committed to voting yes.

The ERA will die in 1979, the deadline set by the U.S. Senate for winning ratification by the required three-quarters of the states.

Pictured: From the collection a pinback button worn by ERA advocates.