Discussion 1
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• You should also respond to at least two classmates' postings for each Discussion topic; each response should contain a minimum of 100 words.
Societal Impressions of the "New Woman"
In the years following the 1920 ratification of the 19th Amendment, women became increasingly active in politics; similarly, the presence of women in the workforce would increase during the 1920s.
1. What were some of the political accomplishments and workforce changes (both inside and outside the home) for women?
2. Think about how your life experiences may correspond with the successes and challenges for women in the 1920s and 1930s. For example: Women would actively participate in social justice efforts during the New Deal of the 1930s, an indication of the power of a collective voice in favor of change. Have you ever been involved in a conscious effort to change habits or patterns in your own life or to encourage others to improve their own lives (i.e., through volunteer efforts, assistance to family and friends, etc.)?
Discussion 2: Empowerment in the 1940s versus Societal Expectations in the 1950s
• This unit contains one Discussion Board topic.
• Read this topic carefully so that you can post a response that addresses all aspects; each initial response should include a minimum of 100 words.
• You should also respond to at least two classmates' postings for each Discussion topic; each response should contain a minimum of 100 words.
Topic:
1. What changes in government policy made American families more prosperous after World War II? How did the prosperity start to change family culture and gender roles?
2. Put yourself in the shoes of a woman living in the years immediately following the end of WWII. How are you affected by the end of the war? What would be your response to returning home after the end of WWII? How would you react to the media emphasis on the housewife and nuclear family?
Discussion 3: Change versus Continuity
• This unit contains one Discussion Board topic.
• Read this topic carefully so that you can post a response that addresses all aspects; each initial response should include a minimum of 100 words.
• You should also respond to at least two classmates' postings for each Discussion topic; each response should contain a minimum of 100 words.
Topic: NOW and ERA
1. What were the main issues for which women were fighting during the 1960s, 1970s, and early 1980s? What was the significance of the National Organization for Women (NOW) and the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA) as part of these efforts?
2. Take a look back at the events of the 1960s, 1970s, and early 1980s from the perspective of the 21st Century. To what degree were the efforts of the second wave of feminism successful? What impact can you see from these three decades on the modern era?
Text Book: Through Women's Eyes: An American History with Documents.