Women overview and some extra knowledge

Question 1

Women and the family conclusion

Answer 1

Soviet family policy changed over time. As family policy changed, so did the official status of women. Initial attempts to ensure the liberation of women were replaced by a more conservative policy. In the 1950s and early 1960s there was a renewed attempt to liberate women. However, Khrushchev’s campaign never questioned the basic nature of the family or the assumption that women should be responsible for childcare and domestic labour. Under Brezhnev, policy women hardened again. Once again, the emphasis was on women having children, while men took the high-status jobs in the public sphere

Question 2

1917-30

Answer 2

Zhenotdel leads the campaign for sexual equality. However, the campaign has limited impact due to economic problems and the prejudice of male communists

Question 3

1930-40

Answer 3

Opportunities for women increase in factories and on collective farms. Educational opportunities also increase. Pay inequalities persist and contraception and abortion are outlawed

Question 4

1941-55

Answer 4

Women’s contribution to the Second World War is celebrated in official propaganda

Question 5

1955-64

Answer 5

Khrushchev extends women’s rights by legalising abortion. His other policies are designed to help women reflect traditional stereotypes regarding the roles of women. Government officials are concerned about women’s desire for fashion the promiscuity of some young women

Question 6

1965-79

Answer 6

Brezhnev promotes motherhood. Government-led attempts to address sexual inequality cease

Question 7

1979-85

Answer 7

Small feminist groups emerge in major cities. The KGB harasses leading feminists forcing the groups to end