State Historical Society of Iowa

Two Women Working in a Factory Making Bedspring Webbing, 1969

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Courtesy of Library of Congress, "The Negro at Work During the World War and During Reconstruction: Statistics, Problems, and Policies Relating to the Greater Inclusion of Negro Wage Earners in American Industry and Agriculture," 1969

Description

During World War I, industrial opportunities became available to women when workers were needed to replace men drafted into military service. African American women responded to the demand by leaving their often low-status jobs in service industries. . These two African American women are seen working in a factory making bedspring webbing.

Source Dependent Questions

  • The two women in the photo are working at a factory during World War I. Using your historical knowledge, why were women, including African American women, needed to work in factories during this time period?
  • Why might this photo appeal not just to African American women, but also African American men considering migrating to the North?
  • Write a new caption for this photo that would inspire hope in African Americans thinking about migrating to the North. Also, explain your thinking.

Citation Information

"The Negro at Work During the World War and During Reconstruction: Statistics, Problems, and Policies Relating to the Greater Inclusion of Negro Wage Earners in American Industry and Agriculture," 1969. Courtesy of Library of Congress Courtesy of Library of Congress