Impact of 20th Century Wars on Women

Impact of 20^th Century Wars on Women

Modern history intertwines war and women liberation. It is undeniable that atrocities committed in 20^th Century wars have had a profound impact on women's role.  For instance, women that broke through stereotypes, exhibited courage or became feminists dominate the history of World War I and II. Others took up arms to fight alongside men. Most importantly, women are increasingly playing a vital role in opposing modern wars. World Wars, Vietnam War, and the Cold War served as platforms for women to exploit their potential and to advocate for an adoption of their constitutionally mandated rights.

            During the World War I, men in America and Europe joined forces as a show of their patriotic stance. For four years, the war yielded injuries, carnage and injuries on a massive scale. In the end, there were social upheaval and revolutions. Emperors and Kings were deposed. Revolution of workers and universal suffrage became a new normal. Domestic servicewomen were employed in high-wage jobs reserved for men.  In addition, women began dressing comfortably as the restrictions were lifted gradually. There was a sharp decline in fertility rate though motherhood was still considered the main role of women.

At the height of World War II, most women became part of the armed forces. The relaxation of rules at the workplace allowed women to take up industrial jobs. As a result, most young females enrolled in schools to acquire necessary knowledge and skills for their careers.  Most experts saw the move as a direct challenge to traditional stereotype.

Wars during the second half of 20^th century presented a wave of opportunities to middle-aged women than any other time in recorded history. The Vietnam War, for example, enabled women to break out of oppressive social statuses. On a negative note, women in Vietnam were faced with rapes, death and torture on a daily basis.

The Cold War instilled a fear of a possibility of an eruption of a nuclear war. The fear was so pronounced that notable women took roles to forge  peace in warring states.  Activist groups led by women mushroomed in the United States to pressurize the government to lay down arms. UK’s Margret Thatcher and other women took the center stage in political and peace movements at the aftermath of Cold War. Since then, more working class women have followed the lead to become outspoken in the workplace and political institutions. Thus, it is evident that the wars had varied impacts on different groups of women.