Earlier years, American women had to face multiple gender discrimination. They have been fighting for an equal role in society since 19th century. Job opportunities for female during the 19th century were limited and employers paid less to women than men. According to Chudacoff’s chapter on educational reform, “Significantly, the increased demand opened up the profession to women, who now outnumbered men in the common schools. By paying women only half what they paid men (salaries of $600 to $700 per year for female teachers, $900 to $1,200 for males)…”(p185)
Women used to hold jobs with less authority, rank and opportunity for advancement. Now the gender gap is decreasing. More women are allowed to hold top managerial positions. Women also realized the importance of social networks in the work organizations. Now, most men and women are almost equivalent around their family responsibilities. This provides more flex time for the working female to advance themselves in the working force.