"Disobedient Women" Women in Erie During World War II

Abstract

" Disobedient Women!" What an unusual title to use to discuss women’s involvement in this country during World War II!! We are more familiar with some of the following phrases: “Support your men in arms.” “Buy war bonds.” “Keep the homes fires burning.” And, oh yes, that ever familiar and popular image of “Rosie the Riveter.” The 1940s gave America the opportunity to help Europe and Asia defeat brutal dictatorships, and also to rejuvenate the economy. Most of us grew up hearing stories of heroism about the war from our parents or grandparents. Indeed this is one side of America’s war on the homefront, but only one. There is another side. This article examines the popular image of women in Erie, Pennsylvania, during this time, but it will also look at the activities of women who did not fit the “Rosie” image.