What type of jobs did women take on during World War II?

During World War II, women increasingly took on roles that were traditionally held by men, especially as many men were drafted into military service. This shift was significant in engineering and manufacturing, where women became essential to the production of war materials, including munitions, aircraft, and vehicles. The iconic figure of "Rosie the Riveter" symbolizes this movement, representing the women who worked in factories and shipyards, demonstrating their capability in technical and skilled roles that had previously been dominated by men.

The contributions of women during this period were crucial in not only maintaining the war effort but also in challenging and changing societal expectations about women's work. This push into engineering and manufacturing roles lay the groundwork for future advancements in gender equality in the workforce, showcasing women's abilities in various fields beyond those traditionally assigned to them.