Final answer:
Prehistoric cultures often saw women in egalitarian roles, with some societies presenting less rigid gender roles, similar to today's push for gender equality. Indigenous American cultures often empowered women in areas traditionally reserved for men in European societies. In contrast, Neolithic Chinese communities suggested matrilineal structures with gender parity.
Step-by-step explanation:
According to the Discover article, prehistoric cultures often depicted women in roles vastly different from what was previously assumed. Early societies are now understood to have been egalitarian with women participating in a variety of roles, from subsistence activities to economic tasks, sometimes enjoying equal status to men. In certain hunter-gatherer communities, women's gathering contributed the majority of dietary calories, positioning them as equals to men in social status.
Comparison to women of today shows that many of the roles of women in prehistoric societies might resonate with the modern world, where women can be found in all areas of work and life, pushing for equality. However, in some societies, women were more dedicated to the domestic sphere, which contrasts with today's increasingly public roles of women. Yet, the flexibility observed in the division of labor might be familiar, as women today also manage multiple roles in society.
Among Indigenous American cultures, women often took part in tasks that were traditionally considered masculine in European societies, such as farming and building structures. They also played influential roles in leadership and were considered imbued with sacred powers. In contrast, Neolithic Chinese communities suggested matrilineal societies where gender roles were less rigid, representing a period where women appeared to be on par with men.