Factors leading to changes in the roles of women.

Learning Outcomes Know the four factors which led to the changing role of women [C] Explain how and why each factor led to women’s lives changing [B] Evaluate each factor and decide which is the most important [A]

1. The Women’s Liberation Movement Became particularly strong in Britain towards the end of the 1960s and 70s. Germaine Greer published The Female Eunuch in The main effect was that it brought publicity to the cause. It also put pressure on politicians to make changes as it was very clear that the movement had widespread support.

Throughout the period Britain was gradually becoming closer to the European Economic Community (EEC, later known as the EU). Britain finally joined in January European Influence “Each member state shall in the course of the first stage ensure…the application of the principle of equal [pay] for equal work as between men and women.” Extract from the original EEC Treaty, signed in Rome 25 March “Each member state shall in the course of the first stage ensure…the application of the principle of equal [pay] for equal work as between men and women.” Extract from the original EEC Treaty, signed in Rome 25 March 1957.

No coincidence that Abortion Act and Divorce Reform Act took place under a Labour government. Harold Wilson’s government ( ) introduced a range of social reforms. Many were originally introduced as private members’ bills, but the legislation was passed by a Labour-majority parliament which shows that they were open to such changes. 3. Attitude of the Labour Government

Labour government receptive to the idea of change for women, but did not want to split the Cabinet or cause rifts in the party. Therefore proposed legislation was introduced to parliament by individuals. E.g. David Steel introduced the Abortion Act as a private members’ bill. 4. Private Members’ Bills

Activity Look back at the 5 important changes we have studied. For each one decide who was most responsible for bringing about the change. Decide which of the four factors we have just looked at is the most important. Produce something to put your argument across for the most important factor. Do further research if you need to.

Plenary Live, televised debate. Get into four groups and prepare to make your case. For each valid argument your team will get a point. For shouting out your team will be deducted a point.