Women in the 1800s

897 Words4 Pages
In the early 1800s, the United States was shaped in a way that has presently lead to the country’s success. Economically, the “market revolution” and the Industrial Revolution opened the door for many changes, especially for women socially. In the Second Great Awakening, this religious movement provoked many reforms that were lead and supported by women. These major events in American history positively altered women’s role throughout all aspects of life. The Industrial Revolution lead to more jobs for women outside the home and the Second Great Awakening lead to more rights for women. Due to these developments in the 1800s, women’s roles and opportunities in the work place, the family, and society were significantly altered. First, in the world of economics, women began to have more opportunity to be self-sufficient and more than a simple housewife. Due to the Industrial Revolution, manufacturing became a prominent aspect in the economic success of the United States. It provided more jobs, especially in mills. The hours were long and grueling: “We go in [to the mill] at 5:00 AM...and stay until 7 at night,” (Document B). These women helped the economy to be successful, demonstrating that women are no less than men. Women also became nurses, domestic servants, and teachers. Higher education also became available allowing for women like Dr. Elizabeth Blackwell, the first woman doctor, to play a role in the workplace as well as society. Colleges like Oberlin were also founded specifically for women to learn. Once a belittled housewife, after altering developments and movements, women began to hold stable jobs and be more properly educated thus benefiting the United States economy. Secondly, women and family life changed in part by the Second Great Awakening. This religious revival inspired reform movements among women, like more rights and a higher status in
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