Women In The Early 20th Century

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Throughout the early 20th century the lives of American women revolutionized radically. They were increasingly becoming a more significant sector within society. As life changed for them socially, politically and economically, they continued to defy social norms and pushed the boundaries of previous expectations transforming into more “modernized” females. They were viewed as a more influential voice within the community and aspired to prosper into more independent individuals transforming the prior concept of the ideal woman. The passion and commitment they expressed continued to grow and America began on the journey of valuing all its citizens equally. Although this change and prosperity was not widespread across all demographics of women. …show more content…

Granting women the vote re-evaluated the sociological norms of gender roles within western culture and was the first step to breaking down a male dominated society. This was significant as society was beginning to value women increasingly within the community as the vote allowed them to lead a more authoritative role in the decision making process of their country, giving them an influential voice. Additionally, by gaining the right to vote, women were being allowed into the political realm, introducing the creation of a politicized woman and allowed to seek a political career. Unfortunately, women in no way achieved equality with men even though they were given the right to vote they did not have complete access to political power. Political parties wanted women's votes but didn't necessarily want them as political candidates and they were viewed as being 'unelectable.' Although, apart from very few exceptions of women that did go into politics such as Florence Kelley and Alice Paul, majority of women gave up politics and returned to traditional roles of being housewives. However political parties and the government were reminded that a country shall not prosper or move forward if half its public is being neglected. This also allowed women to build a reputable position within society and opened doors for