Two Women Working in a Factory Making Bedspring Webbing, 1969

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. Black women responded to the demand by leaving their homes and domestic jobs. These two African-American women are seen working in a factory making bedspring wedding.

Source-Dependent Questions

The two women in the photo are working at a factory during World War II. Using your historical knowledge, why were women, including African-American women, needed to work in factories during this time period?
Look closely at the image, would this photo give hope, fear or both as an African American thought about migrating to the North? Explain your answer.

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