- Women stepped into jobs traditionally held by men as many male workers joined the war effort.
- This included industries like manufacturing, transportation, and public services.
2. Suffrage Movement Gains Momentum:
- Women's roles during the war bolstered arguments for women's suffrage.
- The National American Woman Suffrage Association intensified its campaign, resulting in the passage of the 19th amendment in 1920.
3. Growing Independence and Social Changes:
- The war effort gave women more independence and a taste of life outside domestic responsibilities.
- This spurred changes in societal norms and paved the way for future women's rights movements.
4. Rise of Women's Activism:
- The war inspired women's activism and participation in political and social movements beyond suffrage.
5. Impact on the Workplace:
- Women's contributions during the war led to increased acceptance and recognition of their abilities in various fields.
- This had a lasting impact on workplace gender roles in the years to come.
6. Widows and Orphans:
- The war resulted in many casualties and widows, affecting women and children.
- Widows often struggled with financial and economic challenges, while orphanages and adoption increased.
7. Volunteer Work and War Efforts:
- Women actively volunteered in efforts such as the Red Cross, war bond drives, and community support.
- Their contributions were widely recognized.
8. Changes in Fashion:
- The practical needs of wartime led to changes in women's fashion.
- Shorter hemlines for ease of movement and more practical clothing became popular.
9. Women in the Military:
- While women couldn't serve in combat roles, they assumed noncombat roles such as nurses and support personnel.
- The Women's Army Corps (WAC) and the Navy Women's Reserve (WAVES) were established during the war.
10. Long-Term Impact on Gender Roles:
- World War I played a significant role in chipping away at traditional gender stereotypes.
- Women's expanded roles during and after the war marked the beginning of a gradual transformation of societal expectations for women.