1. During World War I, many women joined the military forces. They did so mostly in non-combat roles, such as nurses and switchboard operators. However, about 13,000 women were also admitted into active duty in the U.S. Navy. The government compensated all women who joined the war effort. The women in the Navy received the same benefits and responsibilities as men, including identical pay and veteran status after the war.
2. All Americans were interested in the war effort, and this meant that most of them valued the active role that women were taking. However, this did not necessarily translated to a more egalitarian approach to their private lives, as women continued to fulfill traditional roles.
3. A lot of women felt empowered because of the role they were playing in the war. They entered the workforce in large numbers, and developed a social, independent life outside of home.
4. The participation of women in the war led to a change in traditional gender roles. Women were able to gain more freedom and appreciation. They were also able to build a life outside their home. This encouraged them to fight for equal rights, particularly when it came to suffrage.
