World War 1 (1914-1918)
1. Production and Industry: With a large number of men serving on the front lines, women stepped into industrial jobs traditionally held by men. They worked in factories, shipyards, and other heavy industries, producing munitions, maintaining machinery and equipment, and engaging in other essential tasks.
2. Healthcare: Women worked as nurses and provided medical care to soldiers wounded on the battlefields. They worked in hospitals and field hospitals, often under dangerous and challenging conditions. Some nurses also served as frontline medics, providing aid and saving lives amidst combat.
3. Agriculture and Food Production: As agricultural labour became scarce due to the depletion of male labour force, women took on responsibilities in farming, ensuring the supply of food for both civilians and soldiers. They ploughed fields, planted crops, and managed livestock to support the war effort.
4. Transportation and Logistics: Women operated transportation systems, such as trams and buses, to support troop movement and supplies. They also drove vehicles and worked in garages, contributing to the maintenance of military vehicles.
5. Administrative and Clerical Work: Women carried out administrative tasks in government offices, military departments, and other organisations involved in war-related activities. They handled paperwork, managed supplies, and assisted in coordinating war efforts.
6. Voluntary Work and Social Services: Many women engaged in voluntary work, providing support to soldiers and their families. They participated in fundraising, organizing relief efforts, and offering assistance to those affected by the war.
World War 2 (1939-1945)
1. Military Service: For the first time in history, women were allowed to serve in combat or combat-related roles in various countries. They joined the military as nurses, drivers, mechanics, code breakers, and many other positions, supporting the war effort from various fronts.
2. Industrial and War Production: Similar to World War 1, women filled significant gaps in industrial production, working in factories and shipyards to produce war materials, munitions, and other essential supplies.
3. Intelligence and Special Operations: Some women were recruited for intelligence gathering, espionage, and covert operations, contributing to the gathering and analysis of military intelligence.
4. Transport and Logistics: Women participated in the transportation of troops and supplies, driving vehicles, operating aircraft, and serving as merchant navy personnel.
5. Civil Defence and Public Services: Women played vital roles in civil defence, air raid precautions, and other emergency services. They also served as police officers, firefighters, and air raid wardens, ensuring the safety and protection of civilians.
6. Scientific and Technical Contributions: Women made significant contributions in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, where they were involved in research and development of military technologies, code-breaking, and other strategic projects.
7. Resistance Movements: In occupied territories, women participated in resistance movements, engaging in espionage, sabotage, and clandestine operations against enemy forces.
Despite the progress made, there were still limitations and challenges for women in both world wars. Gender discrimination and inequalities persisted, preventing women from fully participating in certain roles or achieving equal recognition for their contributions. However, the wars played a crucial role in advancing women's rights and paved the way for greater equality and opportunities for women in the decades to follow.