The earliest time for a woman President?

[Padfoot]

The country has probably been ready since 1992 and we've definitely been ready since 1996.  The 90's were when people really began to accept the idea that women could be mothers and breadwinners. 

However, as has already been noted, there simply aren't that many high quality female candidates for the presidency, and the ones who are qualified don't run.  I think that will change after Clinton and Palin.  Perhaps not in 2012 but definitely in 2016 I think both major parties will have at least one female candidate contesting the nomination.  They may not win, but they'll be formidable.  Beginning with 2020 and going onwards, at least one of the four people nominated for president and vice president will be a woman.

[Padfoot]

But I think the cancellation of "Commander in Chief" starring Geena Davis indicates Americans weren't receptive to the idea of a woman president as late as 2006.

Or that ABC has a god awful reputation for crappy scheduling, especially with new shows.  I don't think you can judge something like America's readiness for a female president against the popularity of a TV show.