It has been very difficult throughout history to position women at the same level as men, they have always had a secondary role, which is changing until now, where we see that equality is taking a more important role, it is worth mentioning that in society it has been a constant struggle to demonstrate the power that women have in all areas, as they have always been associated with domestic life.
Women represent almost 50% of the world’s population and yet it has been very difficult to have a voice, as machismo and inequality have always dominated, which can be reflected in the few mentions and the little prominence that women characters have had in history.
Since prehistoric times, women have been recognised as the gender that had to take care of household chores, the one that was only dedicated to administering the resources that men provided through hunting, and from that time on they were considered the weaker sex. As the years progressed, this role was maintained for a long time, as men had the leading role in matters of politics, war, church, etc., unlike women who were often used as an image of adoration, temptation or sin, which made this image associated with all women in general. Very few had access to education or independence, as men were seen as the guide they needed in order to exist in society. The only women who had these privileges were those related to the nobility, who were able to reach positions of power.
In the 17th century the situation seemed to improve, however, there were many injustices that led many women to the stake, as they were accused of witchcraft. It also gave way to new job opportunities that allowed women to have a little more economic independence, as well as having the opportunity for a more comprehensive education.
It was not until the 18th century that women began to speak out and become more aware of a change in mentality, followed by the 19th century when women began to proclaim a philosophy more focused on equality between men and women. At this time the opportunity for a better salary, the right to vote, among other activities were non-existent for women, as were access to higher education, political opinion and decision making.
In the 20th century, women’s suffrage was introduced, which began to make changes in women’s decision-making power. In the 60s and 70s, a difference in society began to be noticed, where women were no longer the figure who had to take care of their partners, but also fought to be heard and recognised. It can be said that in this stage of history feminism was promoted more, as women rejected what was traditionally imposed, giving way to a new era of social, economic, cultural, etc. opportunities.
Despite the achievements made over time, more opportunities are still being pursued to achieve a path less full of injustice, discrimination and more balanced, however, although society is now more aware, there is still a lot of work to be done.
