Why would conservatives oppose a constitutional amendment that promoted the equality of women?

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One of the conservative movement's big campaigns was against the ERA--the Equal Rights Amendment. Why would conservatives oppose a constitutional amendment that promoted the equality of women?

Closely linked with conservative politics of that time (and still today) is what is called "The Religious Right" . Two items on their agenda were the return of mandated prayer in schools and the reinstatement of the death penalty. And of course, the BIG agenda of the Religious Right is abolishing abortion.

Is there any incongruity between a person believing in "the right to life" (the euphemism for anti-abortion) but still pushing for the death penalty? Are there any other conservative agenda items that seem contradictory?

Down through history, what other movements have been opposed by conservatives but pushed by progressives that now are seen as a normal and important parts of society? (Think back to the section on child labor. There are many others, of course.)