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The Color of Time: Women in History 1850-1960

Voltaire

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The history of women in the United States from 1850 to 1960 is a story of progress and setbacks, of challenges faced and overcome. During this period, women made significant gains in education, employment, and political participation. However, they continued to face discrimination and inequality in many areas of life.

The Color of Time: Women In History: 1850-1960

by Frederick Amrine

4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	317 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	432 pages

The Challenges

One of the biggest challenges facing women in the 19th and early 20th centuries was the lack of educational opportunities. In 1850, only about 10% of women attended high school. By 1920, that number had increased to 25%, but it was still far below the rate for men. This lack of education limited women's job opportunities and made it difficult for them to participate fully in society.

Another challenge facing women was the lack of economic opportunities. In 1850, most women worked in low-paying jobs such as domestic service, teaching, or nursing. By 1920, more women were entering the workforce, but they were still concentrated in a few occupations. For example, in 1920, over 50% of women who worked outside the home were employed as teachers or nurses.

Women also faced discrimination in the political arena. In 1850, women were not allowed to vote in any state. By 1920, women had won the right to vote in all but a few states. However, they continued to face barriers to political participation, such as restrictions on their ability to hold office.

The Progress

Despite the challenges they faced, women made significant progress in the 19th and early 20th centuries. One of the most important gains was the expansion of educational opportunities for women. In 1850, there were only a few colleges that admitted women. By 1920, there were over 200 colleges and universities that offered women the opportunity to earn a higher education.

Women also made progress in the workforce. In 1850, most women worked in low-paying jobs. By 1920, more women were entering the workforce, and they were beginning to move into higher-paying occupations. For example, in 1920, over 5% of women who worked outside the home were employed as doctors or lawyers.

Women also made progress in the political arena. In 1850, women were not allowed to vote in any state. By 1920, women had won the right to vote in all but a few states. This was a major victory for women's rights, and it paved the way for women to participate more fully in the political process.

The Color of Time

The experiences of women in the United States from 1850 to 1960 were shaped by the social, political, and economic forces of the time. They faced challenges such as the lack of educational opportunities, the lack of economic opportunities, and the lack of political power. However, they also made significant progress, especially in the areas of education, employment, and political participation.

The story of women in history is a complex and multifaceted one. It is a story of progress and setbacks, of challenges faced and overcome. It is a story that is still being written today.