Although women have performed work since the beginning of civilization, equal participation in wage work is a very new phenomenon. In the United States, the phenomenon is mainly attributed to WWI. As men were fighting in Europe, women began to take jobs in various industries. Even after the war, significant numbers remained working in factories or as domestic servants. With WWII, larger numbers joined the workforce. This changed their role in American society in many different ways. For example:
- The participation of more women in the workforce has been linked to a decrease in fertility.
- Women achieved rights such as suffrage and divorce.
- Attitudes toward sexuality (abortion, birth control) became more liberal and new laws were passed.
- Industries that were originally closed to women became more accepting of female participation.
- Household technology became more common place and reduced the time that women spent working at home.
- Women gained financial independence, which meant they were able to participate more fully in society.