From Shadows to Spotlight: The Evolution of Women's Status from Ancient Times to Modern Era

 Hello, I hope you are doing well. This blog focuses on the role and status of women in the 21st century. We will address several key questions to provide a clear picture of women's current situation and propose potential solutions to their challenges.

In Ancient times, Women were considered as birth machines and ill-treated by society. They were also compelled to work as slaves. As time passed, their worsening condition changed for the better. Now, we are in the 21^st century which is considered highly prosperous in every field but still, women face atrocities and discrimination across the world.

First, I would like to define what it means to be a woman. You might be wondering how to define a gender, but in truth, no single definition can encompass the entirety of a gender's identity. However, while reflecting on this, I had a thought about the definition of women that I would like to share with you.

"A woman is an individual with the remarkable potential to bring new life into the world"

A woman's life is a journey marked by unique stages, each filled with its own challenges, growth, and beauty. Here is a poetic and professional depiction of these stages:

Childhood

Ø  Innocence and Discovery

Ø  Nurturing Relationships

Adolescence

Ø  Self-Discovery

Ø  Educational Growth

Ø  Building Confidence

Early Adulthood

Ø  Pursuit of Dreams

Ø  Relationships and Partnerships

Ø  Self-Reliance

Midlife

Ø  Career Advancement

Ø  Family and Community

Ø  Self-Reflection

Later Years

Ø  Wisdom and Mentorship

Ø  Rediscovery and Passion

This above categorization seems too east but, actually at every stage a woman faces difficulties.

 Now, I’m going to talk about the Status of Women across the globe.

For my findings, I took 2 powerful countries

ü  The U.S.A ( Developed )

ü  India ( Developing )

The U.S.A

During the 19th century, women were primarily restricted to domestic roles in keeping with Protestant values. The campaign for women's suffrage in the United States culminated with the adoption of the Nineteenth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution in 1920. During World War II, many women filled roles vacated by men fighting overseas. Beginning in the 1960s, the second-wave feminist movement changed cultural perceptions of women, although it was unsuccessful in passing the Equal Rights Amendment. In the 21st century, women have achieved greater representation in prominent roles in American life.

Gender Inequality Index[2]
Value	0.179 (2021)
Rank	44th out of 191
Global Gender Gap Index[3]
Value	0.769 (2022)
Rank	27th out of 146

 Beside Gender Inequality, US women suffering from atrocities like

Domestic Violence

According to the National Center for Injury Prevention and Control, women experience about 4.8 million intimate partner-related physical assaults and rapes every year. Less than 20 percent of battered women sought medical treatment following an injury

Sexual Violence

According to the National Crime Victimization Survey, which includes crimes that were not reported to the police, 232,960 women in the U.S. were raped or sexually assaulted in 2006. That’s more than 600 women every day

Click here for more info

Violence Against Women in the United States: Statistics - National Organization for Women (now.org)

Women in the United States - Wikipedia

India

From Ancient times, women of India have suffered from ill practices like Sati Pratha and Child Marriage. During the 19^th century, many reformers such as Ram Mohan Roy, Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar, and Jyotirao Phule fought for the betterment of women. Ultimately, they succeeded in making a meaningful impact on improving women's lives and they dreamt of providing them with equality in society. Unfortunately, in the 21^st century India still couldn't stop the violence against women  

• According to the National Crime Records Bureau of India, reported incidents of crime against women increased by 15.3% in 2021 compared to the year 2020.
• According to the National Crime Records Bureau, in 2011, there were more than 228,650 reported incidents of crime against women, while in 2021, there were 428,278 reported incidents, an 87% increase.
• 65% of Indian men believe women should tolerate violence in order to keep the family together, and women sometimes deserve to be beaten.
• In January 2011, the International Men and Gender Equality Survey (IMAGES) Questionnaire reported that 24% of Indian men had committed sexual violence at some point during their lives.
• India's Gender Gap Index rating was 0.629 in 2022, placing it in 135th place out of 146 countries

Click here for more info- Violence against women in India - Wikipedia

The governments enacted many pieces of legislation for the betterment of the Status of Women and it worked to some preview. So, we can conclude that whether it is a developed country or a developing country, the scenario might be slightly different but, women still face atrocities and discrimination in the 21^st century. Now, go back and read that definition regarding women that I have already mentioned on the 1^st page and think about it. I suffice to say –

To All Men:

In every woman lies a world of strength, resilience, and beauty. Your respect and care can uplift her spirit and empower her dreams. Recognize her contributions, honor her individuality, and stand by her side in times of need. By treating women with kindness and respect, you not only enrich their lives but also create a more compassionate and equitable world for everyone. Let your actions be a testament to the value you place on the women around you, and together, let’s build a future where equality and mutual respect flourish.

 

 

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