American Women DBQ

The beginning of the twentieth century marked an era of extreme change in life as well as in theory. Individuals were starting to realize what they had to offer, and putting those ideas forth into the world. This caused new economic and political advancements as well as other assumptions to occur every day. New developments in the pre and early 1900's affected all of society, yet it had the most substantial influence upon American women.

In the years prior to the 1890's, economic dealings were not as prominent as they proved to be in later years. Previously, large cities were scarce, and rural areas with farmers were more prominent. These settings provided the breeding grounds for women that remained in the home and sacrificed their lives submissively to her spouse. Later, when approaching the 1900's women started breaking free of the social constrictions that were placed upon her. New economic developments allowed her to do so.

Ladies' Home Journal

English: Members of the National American Women Su...

English: Carrie Nation after her marriage to David...

Industry was one area in America that provided women with a great opportunity to change. This advancement placed more emphasis upon economic issues. New industries such as the Ford Company produced a greater influx of automobiles. These new transportation vehicles provided the opportunity for women to become more independent. Along with this company came a greater accumulation of other industries. Women started moving out of the home and into the workplace. Susan B. Anthony, a women's rights activist commented upon women in industry. Anthony stated, "The close of this 19th century finds every trade, vocation, and profession open to women." At this time, women were able to work in factories for their professions. Some of the new job opportunities that were available to women in the 1900's included retail clerking, office typing, and working as professional seamstresses. In 1915, for example, several women worked...