In the 20th century, women's roles began to change significantly in various areas, leading to increased autonomy and opportunity. Here are a few key shifts:
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Increased Autonomy in Choosing Spouses: Women gained more freedom to choose their own spouses rather than being constrained by arranged marriages or familial pressures. This was particularly notable after World War II when societal norms began to shift.
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Expansion of Roles Beyond the Household: While traditional views often confined women to the domestic sphere, many women began to enter the workforce in greater numbers during the 20th century, especially during World War I and World War II. This not only added to their economic independence but also changed perceptions of women's capabilities.
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Rights and Voting: A significant milestone in the early 20th century was the suffragette movement, which culminated in women gaining the right to vote in various countries, including the United States (1920) and the United Kingdom (1918 for some women, and 1928 for all women).
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Education and Careers: There was a push for women's education throughout the century, leading to increased participation in higher education and professional fields. This shift opened doors for women to pursue careers in diverse industries.
Overall, the 20th century marked a period of substantial change in women's roles, resulting in greater rights, opportunities, and a gradual shift in societal norms regarding gender.
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