Women in the 1920s displayed a wide range of themes, from wild progressivism to traditions of motherhood. On the progressive end of the spectrum were the rebellious flappers who pushed boundaries by wearing less clothing and acting in ways such as smoking cigarettes and dancing to the new jazz music. However many women did not fit this description. In the 1920s, more women than ever were attending college, but most were marrying right after college and settling into traditional lives of motherhood and marriage. Less women than before pursued careers after college. The range of progressivism was a continued theme of the 1920s and represents many cultural trends from the decade.
Socially, the 1920s were a decade full of progressivism and reform. Women dressed freely, acted as men did, went out and danced, all to express their rebellion and demonstrate their equality. However, this was met with opposition by many, particularly older people and men of religion. There were still many who believed women should remain in the home, and there were some women who did this. Politically, 1920 was a remarkably progressive year for women, as they received their suffrage after years of fighting for it. Women still faced disadvantages in the workplace, as only 4% of women held careers with a salary. Given these times of progression and times of obstacles, women, particularly young women, in the 1920s held their heads high and continued to fight for their equality - both socially and politically.
"I will keep my eye open for suitable occasions when I may be...influential in bringing about the result we both desire."
The 1920s can best be described as a time of balance between progressivism and traditionalism. This is especially true for women of the time period who experienced great reform socially, their ability to vote, yet also faced workplace inequality and lash back for their social rebellion. While some women, known as flappers, went out in minimal clothing to dance to jazz, others stayed home to tend to their homes and families. More women than ever were going to college, while less were pursuing careers. Women during this time inspired each other to fight for what it was they believed in, whether it be suffrage or social equality.