Download - Photo essay presentation
a photo essay by Stephanie Ebsch
THE NEW WOMAN
The 1920s were a time of progress and growth in all areas of life. Industrialism in construction and mass transportation were
especially influential.
A woman in the 1920s was considered a
“new woman”. The image and
behavior of women in this era changed
drastically. An icon of 1920s,
the flapper symbolized women’s newfound freedom,
independence, and expression of femininity.
Dancing in particular was a
revolutionary form of
entertainment for women. Fresh social institutions,
including dance halls and cabarets,
appeared in the newly
industrialized cities where new
rules concerning
social behavior and conduct
were developed.
The 1920s saw the acceptance of women competing in athletics. American females’ athletic performances became a key part of the
national identity among the international sports community for the first time.
Although women weren’t originators of revolutionary policies or changes in practices, many
of these accomplishments by men could not have been possible without the supportive women in the
labor force of the 1920s.
Many women became
involved in politics in the 1920s. Nellie
Tayloe Ross, the first female
governor, and female
politicians since have proven that
women can be as successful as
men in office without losing their sense of femininity.
Many women’s political groups gained popularity among average, middle class women of the era. One of the focuses of many political
groups was peace, especially pre- and during war years. Women became involved in the peace movement through organizations like the Women’s International League for Peace and Freedom and the
Women’s Peace Union.
Groups planned conferences where women could join together, examine current issues, and explore potential solutions. Moving
beyond equalizing legislation, women wanted to become active in politics and discuss their ideas as openly and intelligently as men
did.
Although a small
number of women became
truly involved in
politics after the
passing of the
Nineteenth Amendment
in 1920, sharing
equal rights was an
important part of
achieving true female independen
ce.
The Equal Rights
Amendment was first
written in 1923.
Support of legislations changes to make the
genders more equal
brought the women’s
rights movement
together and gave them
clear, focused goals.
The Roaring Twenties proved to be a revolutionizing era of change and progress. Women especially grew into the
independent, free-spirited flappers of the 1920s. Legislation changes and achievements powered the women's rights
movement.