The 1920s saw major changes in women's roles and behaviors. Women, known as "new women", gained more freedom and independence, exemplified by the flapper who danced and socialized freely. Women began competing in sports and entering the workforce, politics, and peace movements. The passage of the 19th Amendment and proposals like the Equal Rights Amendment advanced women's rights and equality under the law.

1. THE NEW WOMAN
a photo essay by Stephanie Ebsch

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

3. 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.

4. 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.

5. 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.

6. 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.

7. 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.

8. 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.

9. 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.

10. 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
independence.

11. 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.

12. 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.