April 10, 2024 – Rosie the Riveter

Earlier today, a group of “Rosie the Riveters” were honored in Washington, D.C., with the Congressional Gold Medal in honor of their contributions to the war effort during World War II. Because so many men were off at war, there was a shortage of workers and a demand for labor which could only be filled by women. Nearly 19 million women held jobs during WWII, doing things like working heavy construction machinery, unloading freight, building airships, making munitions, and so much more. After the war ended, women were quickly laid off. But the Rosies proved that women were capable workers and could perform any job just as well (if not better!) than men. Elinor Otto, known as the “Last Rosie the Riveter” built planes for 50 years and retired at the age of 95. Learn more here.