Background

When the United States entered into World War II after the attack on Pearl Harbor, there were many new jobs and not enough workers. Government and industry urged women to fill these new positions and jobs. As the men went off to war, women replaced them in the factories and business offices. Women also worked in the armed forces in organizations such as Women’s Auxiliary Army Corps (WAAC) and the Women’s Air-force Service Pilots (WASP). Some women helped operate military communications and other flew planes from factories to military bases. Many were army or navy nurses in combat zones.

Activity

During the war, there were many posters promoting the efforts of women. One example is of “Rosie the Riveter”. Students can research some of these posters and other promotional sources and create their own slogans to encourage women to join in the war effort.

Internet Resources

Nita Overby interview at Oklahoma WWII Stories website (http://oklahomawwii.org):

http://link.brightcove.com/services/link/bcpid1155328650/bclid1328195716/bctid1328195757

Dick Pryor interview with June Buckley at Oklahoma WWII Stories website (http://oklahomawwii.org):

http://link.brightcove.com/services/link/bcpid1155328650/bclid1201016394/bctid1209603961

Extension

Students may compare and contrast the role of women in World War II with the role of women in the current war in Iraq and Afghanistan. Why are the roles of women so different in today’s military?

(lesson contributed by Teresa Begley)