The Effect of Women’s Contribution to WW1 World War 1 was a devastating conflict that involved many world powers. The war seemed to exhaust most of the involved nations, forcing them to turn to new measures in order to sustain their effort. In fact, during this time - a time where women were seen as inferior to men (Sungrab, Tenzin), it became common for women to participate in the war effort. Yet, women’s contributions in World War 1 prolonged the war. This effect was attributed by women serving as medical aids, as well as aiding in weapon manufacturing. However, women working in industries that were traditionally reserved for men was the most crucial contribution to the war’s length. From a medical perspective, World War 1 was a gruesome …show more content…
However, the most crucial contribution from women was their role in industries that in past, were reserved for men. From 1914 to 1918 - the duration of World War 1, many women were recruited into jobs that had been left vacated by the men who had gone to fight in the military. Common jobs included firefighters, bank tellers, clerks, bus conductors, railway guards, postal workers and police. Further, many women participated in the civil service - a non-elected area of government in which civilians aid in the government’s policies or work. ( This service does not include contributions of any official member of government such as politicians ) (University of Lincoln). Women working in industries enabled men to fight for their nation even if these men had the responsibility of supporting their family. This is because any family whose income relies on the work of the male, would now be able to be supported by a woman. Additionally, women could continue to care for their household if the male of the family returned injured or psychologically traumatized from the war (Impact on Soldiers and Their Families) . From an economic standpoint, by women filling the jobs which were left vacated by male soldiers, services and goods could still be provided to those who were not fighting at the war front. This allows nations to produce goods for both civilians and trade, thereby stabilizing the economy. Women also increased government stability by volunteering and contributing to government services. Even from this simple act of volunteering, agencies are able to provide additional services (Konwiser, Ellen). As a whole, women worked and provided for their household so that family involved soldiers could easily go to war. Also, women provided the services and goods necessary for a strong economy and government.