World War, Worldly Women

The First World War affected women in the social sphere. Before the war, a woman's existence was mainly centered on her home, and domestic concerns occupied her everyday life. When war broke out, however, the social role of women changed from housewife in the background to major contributor the war effort. On the Home Front, women supported the war effort in many ways such as making scarves, sheets, pillowcases and socks for soldiers overseas. Furthermore, during both world wars, women at home had to learn to deal with the rationing of daily foods such as eggs, butter and sugar. Their creativity and self-denying attitude in making do without everyday supplies gained them much respect.

World War, Worldly Women

Isabelle Ava-Pointon

Grade 11

Crofton House School
Burnaby, British Columbia

The study of women's rights in Canada and how women affected the course of history has always had a special interest for me.

Related Essays

  • Women in War

    Women in War

    Jasmine Marshall

    West Vancouver, British Columbia

    My favourite part of Canadian History is learning new things that relate to where I live and being able to connect them with my life today.

  • Canadian Women During World Wars I and II

    Canadian Women During World Wars I and II

    Daniel Yan

    Vancouver, British Columbia

    I think my favorite part of Canadian History are wars. They are fascinating because of the rich stories that accompany them.

 
View all essays