Summary: With the onset of World War I, women took on the traditional roles of providing indispensable services such as cooking, nursing, and laundry. But they also engaged in newer ones. Women in the United States formed organizations that brought relief to the war-torn countries in Europe, both before and after America's entry in April 1917. These groups were highly organized, much like the military, which garnered women respect from their fellow citizens. This three-lesson unit examines the complexity of women’s contributions to World War I. The resources shed light on World War I in a compelling and very human way. Students will demonstrate what they have learned through their analysis of the various primary sources by writing a response to an essential question posed for the unit.
Overarching Questions:
- CIVICS: How well does the government balance individual rights and the common good, including the need to maintain order, safety and a healthy environment, during this time period?
- CIVICS: Have individuals and groups influenced public policy during this time period? If so, how and what has been the impact?
- ECONOMICS: What is the proper role of government in the economy? (Especially with regard to economic crises, national defense/security, health and safety of the people, and economic development and practices.)
NJ Student Learning Standards for Social Studies:
- 6.1.12.CivicsDP.7.a: Evaluate the impact of government policies designed to promote patriotism and to protect national security during times of war on individual rights (i.e., the Espionage Act and the Sedition Amendment).
- 6.1.12.EconNM.7.a: Assess the immediate and long-term impact of women and African Americans entering the work force in large numbers during World War I.
Link to Lesson: American Women and World War I | Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History