women’s work during ww2

In this activity, you will analyze four historical photographs that show different ways women contributed to the war effort during World War II. Through this analysis, you will better understand the roles women played and how their work challenged traditional gender roles at the time.

uring World War II (1939–1945), millions of men were drafted into military service, creating a massive labor shortage. In response, women across the Allied nations stepped into jobs that had traditionally been held by men. These included factory work, military support roles, nursing, farming, and volunteer services. The war opened the door for many women to enter the workforce in new and significant ways, changing societal expectations and paving the way for future movements toward gender equality.

Pay attention to:

• What the women are doing

• What they’re wearing

• Tools or machinery in the photo

• Facial expressions or body language

• Setting or location

• Any text or captions