The rise of modernization after WWI led to a spread of Western values that were adopted by President Ataturk of Turkey and the Shah of Iran, both of whom sought to bring progress to their nations. They made laws promoting equal rights, and allowed women to dress in modern, Western clothing as opposed to the traditional rules of Islam.

Rosie the Riveter was an American propaganda figure and symbol of the contribution of women to the war effort during World War Two. She is a cultural icon meant to stand for the millions of women who worked in munitions factories and worked other jobs traditionally held by men.

Due to the extent of the war effort and the number of men fighting on the front lines, many women entered the labor force for the first time to be employed by jobs previously held by men. This led to a substantial increase in participation in the labor force.