A Day in the Life of a

Woman in the Early 1900s

Introduction:

Imagine waking up in the early 1900s. Women cannot vote,

own property in some places, or work in many jobs. Your day
starts early as you make breakfast for your family. There are no
modern machines to help you, so everything takes more time
and e#ort. You think about the women fighting for the right to
vote and how this might change your future.

Daily Life:

In this time, your role is mostly at home. You spend your day cooking, cleaning, and taking care of your children.
If you are not married, your options are limited. You might work as a servant or in a factory with hard conditions.
Education for women is often basic, focusing on homemaking skills instead of academics or professional
training.

The Su#rage Movement:

Despite the di#iculties, many women are fighting for their rights. They hold rallies, write articles, and ask the
government for change. Some are arrested and go on hunger strikes to get attention. As you read about these
events in the newspaper, you feel both hope and fear. Will they succeed? If they do, how will your life change?

Social Norms and Expectations:

Society has strict rules for women. You are expected to obey your husband and focus on raising children and
managing the home. Any change from these roles is often met with disapproval or punishment. The idea of
women voting or holding public o#ice seems strange to many people of the time.

Discussion Questions:

1. How would you feel waking up in a time when women had very few rights?

2. What would be the hardest part of daily life for you in the early 1900s?

3. How would the su#rage movement change your view on women's rights and your own future?

4. What are the good and bad sides of women fighting for their rights during this time?

5. Think about the social rules and expectations of the time. How would these a#ect your dreams and
opportunities?

6. Imagine you are part of the su#rage movement. What would you do to support the cause, and what risks
would you take?

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