Final answer:
Mid-20th century women experienced restricted economic autonomy, freedom, and socialization opportunities as societal norms pushed them into domestic roles. Post-war, women faced strong societal pressures to limit their workforce participation to low-wage 'women's jobs' or to refrain altogether. Despite resistance and new rights, societal expectations continued to constrain women's roles.
Step-by-step explanation:
Women in the mid-20th century found that their economic autonomy, freedom to travel, and opportunities to congregate were significantly curtailed as they were increasingly confined to the domestic sphere. This transition was propelled by societal norms that viewed employment outside the home for women as either a necessary evil during financial hardships or war, or as a temporary phase before marriage. The construction of suburbs further exacerbated isolation, confining many to the home with reduced mobility and access to job markets.
Post-World War II, there was a strong push for women to return to their traditional roles, limiting their workforce participation to so-called 'women's jobs' which often offered lower wages. Despite objections, female labor was at least temporarily seen as acceptable if it did not encroach upon male-dominant professions. Nevertheless, many women resisted these constraints, leveraging their war-time contributions to claim greater rights and participation in public affairs.
Yet, societal pressures persisted, and even as women gained new freedoms, they were still expected to fit the stereotypical mold of their 'woman's place.' The disenfranchisement and subsequent burgeoning dissatisfaction among women highlighted the increasing unacceptability of second-class citizenship status.