4.1.3

Impact of WW2 on Women

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Changing Impact of World War Two on Women

As many men were fighting, women were required to take their place in heavy industry to maintain the war effort.

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Compulsory service

  • From 1939, women had to do compulsory service in the RAD.
  • The regime shied away from moving women into war-related or heavy industries for fear of lowering soldiers’ morale, but by 1942 labour shortages were acute.
  • Heavy German losses in the USSR led to men being taken from war-related industries for the armed forces, so women made up their numbers.
  • By the end of 1943, approximately 1.5 million (around 34% of) women were doing war work.
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Auxiliary forces

  • Women joined auxiliary forces (e.g. Navy, Luftwaffe) and the SS-Helferinnen.
  • 3,700 women served in concentration camps.
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Other professions

  • Other jobs women did to help the war effort included:
    • Accountants.
    • Interpreters.
    • Laboratory work.
    • Nursing.

Jump to other topics

1Political & Governmental Change, 1918-1989

2Opposition, Control & Consent 1918-1989

3Economic Developments & Policies, 1918-1989

4Aspects of Life, 1918-1989

5Historical Interpretations

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