women Flashcards
(40 cards)
What was the traditional role of women in German society during the 19th century?
To fulfil patriotic duty through maternal care, providing emotional support, and tending to the sick and needy
This traditional view was influenced by Prussian culture and emphasized a woman’s role in the family.
How did the German national civil code affect the status of women?
It legalised the lower status of women, giving men authority over children, property, and legal contracts
This code reinforced the belief that men should dominate in family and societal matters.
What were women in 19th-century Germany believed to be too fragile for?
To play a larger part in society
This belief contributed to the strict differentiation of roles between men and women.
What sectors did women primarily work in during the industrialisation after 1871?
Textiles, garment making, and food processing
These sectors were the lowest-paid and least skilled areas of the economy.
What was the general perception of women’s work in the German industrial economy?
It was considered subsidiary to men’s work and thus worthy only of low pay
Women’s work was not seen as essential for family income, reinforcing gender inequality.
What significant change occurred regarding women’s roles during the early 20th century?
More women began to enter the workforce due to growing industrialisation
Despite this, their roles remained largely restricted and undervalued.
True or False: Women were allowed to vote in Germany during the 19th century.
False
Women were denied the right to vote, reflecting their limited political power.
Fill in the blank: The roles of men and women in 19th-century Germany were quite _______.
differentiated
This differentiation was enforced by societal norms and legal frameworks.
What was the main societal expectation of men in 19th-century Germany?
To be soldiers and defenders of the home and fatherland
This expectation defined their role in a militarised society.
What was the hierarchy in German society like during the Kaiserreich?
It was quite strictly hierarchical, enforcing men’s dominance over women
This hierarchy was supported by laws that limited women’s rights and freedoms.
How did industrialisation affect women’s employment opportunities?
It led to more women entering the workforce, but in low-paid and segregated jobs
The economic structure still limited women’s roles to specific sectors.
What was the perception of women’s work compared to men’s in Germany?
Women’s work was deemed ‘unskilled’, while men’s was ‘semi-skilled’
This perception allowed for lower pay and worse conditions for women.
What was expected of women who worked in terms of family responsibilities?
Women were expected to take the full burden of family-raising and domestic tasks.
What welfare provisions were introduced by Bismarck for women?
- Six weeks of maternity leave
- 11-hour working day
- More time off at lunch and on Saturdays
In which industry were women not allowed to be employed?
Mining industry
What was the concern regarding industrialization and women in the workforce?
It was believed that work caused poor health among women, leading to infant mortality and miscarriages.
What was the aim of the protective legislation introduced in the Kaiserreich?
To reinforce the divisions between men’s place in the workforce and women’s place at home.
Who led the Society for the Protection of Women Workers Interests?
Emma Ihrer
What services did the Society for the Protection of Women Workers Interests provide?
- Services of doctors
- Services of lawyers without charge
What significant position did Emma Ihrer achieve in 1890?
She became the first and only woman elected to the General Commission of German Trade Unions.
Which political party in Germany campaigned for women’s rights?
SPD (Social Democratic Party of Germany)
Who was the leader of the SPD’s women’s section?
Clara Zetkin
What was the purpose of the first International Women’s Day founded by Clara Zetkin?
To bring greater attention to the plight of women worldwide.
What was the focus of the Bund Deutscher Frauenvereine (BDF)?
Rights of middle-class women in education and politics.
