The role of women in war has varied significantly throughout british history. During world War 1 , The role of women was constricted as many worked in the industry of textiles , knitting and munitions. This said they played a pivotal role in the war effort as 23.8 million women in Britain were all working. Voluntary and paid positions were taken up as unfamiliar roles to women, Nevertheless this was required in order to sustain the living of many families. World War 1 illustrated the capability of women in working across a variety of fields. However the effort from women was arguably taken out of context. Despite the rise in pay , women still earned less then men. They held the responsibility of working as a generation of men went to fight. …show more content…
However despite pleas from Millicent Fawcett to lower the voting age to 18 at the speakers conference in 1916 very little was achieved. The act only allowed women over the age of 30 to vote that was also subject to a residency qualification. The legislation failed to convey the efforts of women as all men over the age of 21 were granted the vote. Moreover the act created an unfair system allowing middle class men with a well educated background an extra vote which further proved the inequalities of the act. Despite this ,The Qualification Of Women Act 21st November 1918 allowed women over the age of 21 to stand for an MP. However the breakthrough act was disproportionate as it meant that a women is eligible to stand for elections but if under the age of 30, is disallowed to vote individually. Based on the role of women during World War 1, The legislation introduced as a result was ineffective and portrayed inequalities between men and women. However Martin Pugh believes the vote in favor of female suffrage was simply a "continuation of how the situation was moving before the war" , connoting the role of women in World War 1 had a positive impact which is a statement of debate. The role of Women during world war 1 was complex,as many helped out …show more content…
The act most certainly was a defining moment in british history. The legislation was effective and was illustrated with the lack of oppostion to the bill. Men and women aged above the age of 21 were allowed to vote equalling the age to stand for an MP . Moreover it could be criticised for being introduced 10 years later than the original bill which in between witnessed the deaths of famous figures including the likes of Emmeline Pankhurst and Emily Davies who fought for the right to vote. As a result women were finally rewarded after years of hardship. It led to to deaths and mass demonstrations during the process in order for the voting right to be achieved. Nevertheless The Equal Franchise Act 1928 was a moment of realization and a overwhelming sense of