Recently in class we were able to have the experience of having first hand examples and primary source explanations of how women were treated and how they were able to help out in World War II. This experience was able to open our eyes to how women were able to become an active part of the war and hear real life stories of how lives were changed. With Amelia McDanel, Marion Cadwell and Sara Schantz presenting to us along with Marion Cadwell’s war life story. Here is what we were able to learn.Marion Cadwell was a native Montanan, parachute rigger, technical illustrator, and feminist. During her childhood she was “kept in a state of not belonging” and believed that, “military was a dream especially with the glamour of the uniforms.” She first was ready to become part of the war when she saw an article in the Billings Gazette that the government had sent out that asked for leather and canvas workers that could sew very well. To her this was a route out of Billings.
Her first assignment was to design her own uniform and her other jobs were to repair flight suites that were made of leather and had sheep skin linings. She was also required to pack parachutes. She was able to also make an example to other women by being involved in the war which may have encouraged other women to help. This was a big deal for her along with other women to be part of the war. Women hadn’t had the chance much before this to be part of such a public event. As the war preceded women were given chances to become involved.
When asked what she remembered about Victory of Japan Day she said, “I remember thinking this is the end. This is such an end because I was all alone in that particular moment,” she added, “that is the remembrance that I have of that particular moment. Yet she wanted to make sure that we all knew, “I have been in it, and I won’t forget it.” She also wanted us to realize that she thought about herself in one particular way, “I felt I was a feminist long before the word existed.” After giving her first hand account of what was going on she stated as a conclusion, “War is hell!”
How do you feel about the way women's rights changed in WWII? Explain thoroughly.
Cassie P., Kyrstyn M., Jordan J.
Period 5
2 comments:
Wow! What an opportunity for you! When I was in high school (in the 80s), I read about WWII from a text book and took a test! I never knew anyone that was actually a part of that segment of history. War was a concept that I didn't really understand or honestly, care about. I think having the opportunity to talk with someone who actually lived through the experience makes us understand - makes us care!
I can remember (when I was really little), watching the commercials that encouraged women to make sure dinner was hot, the house was clean, and a refreshing drink was ready for the husband as he walked through the door...the woman's role was that of housewife and mother. I think WWII really allowed women to step outside that traditional role and provide a different service, like your visitors.
There are definitely more opportunities for women than in the past...now most jobs can be filled by the most qualified person, regardless of gender. For example, when I was in high school, girls couldn't take shop or mechanics. Today, you are allowed and even encouraged to take those types of classes.
Yes, women's roles have certainly changed!
I think that women jobs and lives increased after world war two. After though women are allowed jobs that normally would not be allowed for them. ALso that just in the school system girls are able to take shop classes and mechanics and other type of classes. Women have increased their respect in out community. They have been able to have different jobs and be more respective. Also that we almost had a women as our president. Women's lives have increased and so has their progress in society.
Josh Erger
Period 0
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