Discussion Topic
The impact and limitations of changes in women's lives during the 1960s
Summary:
During the 1960s, women experienced significant changes, including increased workforce participation, access to higher education, and reproductive rights. However, these advancements had limitations: gender wage gaps persisted, societal expectations remained restrictive, and many women faced barriers in professional advancement. Despite progress, true gender equality was still far from being achieved.
How did the 1960s change the lives of women?
The 1960s produced feminism and free love. Perhaps the greatest change was the idea that women could and should make their own decisions. Women, especially young women, began to question everything they had taken for granted, from wearing bras to obeying men. Women decided whether to go to work, go to school, or stay home. For the first time, there were choices.
The 1960s was a decade of change and upheaval for women. Many women took advantage of the hormone birth-control Pill and began taking control of their reproductive capacity. In 1963 Betty Friedan wrote a book called The Feminine Mystique which basically questioned the cultural mores and norms associated with feminine culture. Vietnam took women closer into combat zones yet women were not "allowed" to fight or serve in a combat capacity. The sexual revolution that came as a result of the advent of the Pill caused many women to experiment with sexuality and the cultural prohibitions associated with sex and marriage.
Many career paths opened up to women that were not traditional careers for women. More women attended college and studied medicine, engineering and other "traditionally male" careers. Gone were the days of women being teachers or nurses.
More women became divorcees as a result of more social freedom and less social rejection if they decided to leave a bad marriage.
Get Ahead with eNotes
Start your 48-hour free trial to access everything you need to rise to the top of the class. Enjoy expert answers and study guides ad-free and take your learning to the next level.
Already a member? Log in here.