Final answer:
Historical opposition to female nurses and doctors stemmed from the discomfort and hostility of male students and faculty, the threat to traditional gender roles, and the perception of men as protectors, with women as dependents. Pioneers like Irma LeVasseur and Mary Lee Edward helped to break these barriers.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question at hand concerns the historical reasons why many doctors opposed having female nurses and doctors within the medical field. Initially, the major objection to medical training for women was the issue of co-education, with male students and faculty feeling uncomfortable and even hostile towards the presence of women during anatomy classes. This harassment and intimidation included vulgar drawings and demonstrations, aimed at undermining the women's participation. History shows that even once women became nurses and were praised for their work during wartime, they continued to face opposition and a glass ceiling in both military and civilian sectors. Women such as Irma LeVasseur and Mary Lee Edward are celebrated for their courage and skill, overcoming these barriers to excel in their field. The reluctance to accept female medical professionals was not only in reaction to breaking traditional gender roles but also the challenge to the image of men as protectors and women as dependents needing protection. Over time, however, the significant contributions of women in the health sector during wartime, as exemplified by nurses serving close to the front lines and taking on roles as medics, led to greater acceptance and eventually the inclusion of women in medical professions with full rights and benefits.