Historical story

How did the end of World War I affect women in workplace?

Women's Increased Workforce Participation During the war, many men went to fight overseas, resulting in a shortage of workers in agriculture and industrial sector. Women stepped in to fill these gaps, taking on jobs that had traditionally been reserved for men. They worked in roles like factory workers, engineers, shipbuilders and even in some cases served as police officers and firefighters.

Recognition and Opportunities: The war's end resulted in a broader conversation about women's rights and their capabilities in the workplace. Suffragette movements already advocating for women's right to vote, gained momentum, and several Western nations granted women the right to vote by the early 1920s. This acknowledgment of women's contributions during the war paved the way for greater opportunities in various fields.

Shifting Social Attitudes: The war changed societal attitudes towards working women. Their contributions to the war efforts shattered traditional gender roles, making it harder to ignore their potential. Although societal norms took time to fully adapt, progress in women's rights and workforce participation was set in motion.

Temporary Gains and Backlash: While women gained short-term laboral advancements, the post-war period also saw a backlash against these changes. As men returned from war, some women were expected to return to their domestic roles, and gender norms reasserted themselves. It was not until later feminist waves that substantial advances were made.