Women in World War One

World War One dramatically transformed the lives of women in Britain. From a social and industrial aspect, women were given chances that they believed would never arise. From the years 1914 to 1918, the lifestyles of women were indeed turned upside down, as they were employed into a large, differentiating pool of jobs, their sense of freedom and independence increased. Due to the large numbers of men who were starting to leave to serve their part in the War, a lot of jobs were abandoned, and employing women to pursue those jobs was the only option. Although at these times women were only considered useful at the home, caring for their family by cleaning and cooking, the circumstances that followed with World War One gave women an opportunity to prove how they can contribute to society even more so than just caring for their homes.

It is undeniable that the War enhanced the industrial revolution of women in Britain to a great extent, from 1914 to 1918 it is estimated that at least 2 million women replaced men in employment, 2 million women who were faced with abrupt yet enchanting alterations to their once dull and repetitive style of living. Men were considered the powerful and masculine figures in society of the early 1900’s. They were able to vote, work, receive education and could easily express their thoughts and opinions. Men had all of the rights that women didn’t have and also intimidated the women in the sense that they ruled in society. When World War One began in 1914, those men felt as though to prove that masculine and courageous expectation that was set for them, they were required to serve in the army to protect their alliance, their rights, privileges and their social position. As they had left it was realised that jobs would be abandoned and employment of women to take over the men’s jobs while they were away was the only reasonable decision. Their entrance into the workforce was initially greeted with hostility for the usual sexist reasons and