The Fanzine's popularity as a platform for social commentary sprouted with the Grunge, punk rock, and third wave feminist movements of the early 90's. This is when many artists dropped the "Fan-" and classified their work simple as a Zine.

These ideas began in the Pacific Northwest, and spread throughout America over the next two decades.

While the movement has remained relatively compact, Zines are often considered to be a vital part of America's feminist and Riot Grrrl subcultures.