a photo essay by Stephanie Ebsch

THE NEW WOMAN

The 1920s were a time of progress and growth in all areas of life. Industrialism in construction and mass transportation were

especially influential.

A woman in the 1920s was considered a

“new woman”. The image and

behavior of women in this era changed

drastically. An icon of 1920s,

the flapper symbolized women’s newfound freedom,

independence, and expression of femininity.

Dancing in particular was a

revolutionary form of

entertainment for women. Fresh social institutions,

including dance halls and cabarets,

appeared in the newly

industrialized cities where new

rules concerning

social behavior and conduct

were developed.

The 1920s saw the acceptance of women competing in athletics. American females’ athletic performances became a key part of the

national identity among the international sports community for the first time.

Although women weren’t originators of revolutionary policies or changes in practices, many

of these accomplishments by men could not have been possible without the supportive women in the

labor force of the 1920s.

Many women became

involved in politics in the 1920s. Nellie

Tayloe Ross, the first female

governor, and female

politicians since have proven that

women can be as successful as

men in office without losing their sense of femininity.

Many women’s political groups gained popularity among average, middle class women of the era. One of the focuses of many political

groups was peace, especially pre- and during war years. Women became involved in the peace movement through organizations like the Women’s International League for Peace and Freedom and the

Women’s Peace Union.

Groups planned conferences where women could join together, examine current issues, and explore potential solutions. Moving

beyond equalizing legislation, women wanted to become active in politics and discuss their ideas as openly and intelligently as men

did.

Although a small

number of women became

truly involved in

politics after the

passing of the

Nineteenth Amendment

in 1920, sharing

equal rights was an

important part of

achieving true female independen

ce.

The Equal Rights

Amendment was first

written in 1923.

Support of legislations changes to make the

genders more equal

brought the women’s

rights movement

together and gave them

clear, focused goals.

The Roaring Twenties proved to be a revolutionizing era of change and progress. Women especially grew into the

independent, free-spirited flappers of the 1920s. Legislation changes and achievements powered the women's rights

movement.