What is most striking is that the women were working in the home because there was so much work that had to be done earlier in the last century.
I set to wondering what were the main technological changes that brought women out of the home and into the commercial realm.
The washer and dryer are usually singled out as critical tools. I do not dispute that because laundry constituted a large household function usually done by women.
I would like to add to that the introduction of polyester in the late 40s early 50s because that eliminated the enormous task of ironing. I remember mangel irons which were used to iron shirts and slacks.
Lastly, there was an entire packaging revolution in the food industry that brought us frozen foods, frozen dinners and fresh fruits and vegetables from neighboring regions and countries.
The food Revolution played an important role in allowing women in the household to prepare meals quickly and efficiently.
This blog is merely to add to our history polyester and the food preservation technologies that allowed women to participate directly in the world of commerce.