#there were many strikes by female garment workers in the time period

[clove-pinks]

'La M. de la Corsets': c. 1832 lithograph showing a dressmaker or tailoress and client. The undergarments depicted include sleeve-plumpers.

1830s Thursday: Big sleeves, and even bigger dreams for women’s rights.

The growing vulnerability of working women in industrial society provoked a forceful response. In 1825 hundreds of them went out on strike against New York City clothing houses. In 1831 these same women organized themselves into a mass-membership United Tailoresses’ Society. At a time when journeymen were still devoting their political efforts to a defense of artisanal prerogatives in the master’s shop, these “tailoresses” (the appellation itself testified to an advanced degree of industrial consciousness, excluding as it did the more traditional dressmaking of the “sempstress”) already understood that in a capitalist economy no aspect of the work relationship remained non-negotiable. [...]

No one can help us but ourselves, Sarah Monroe, a leader of the United Tailoresses’ Society, declared. Tailoresses should consequently organize a trade union with a constitution, a plan of action, and a strike fund. Only then could we “come before the public in defense of our rights.” The Wollstonecraftian rhetoric was conscious. Lavinia Wright, the society’s secretary, argued that the tailoresses’ low wages and hard-pressed circumstances were a direct result of the way power was organized throughout society to ensure women’s subordination in all social relations.

— Michael Zakim, Ready-Made Democracy: A History of Men's Dress in the American Republic, 1760-1860

I was disappointed in my search for pictures of Sarah Munroe, Lavinia Wright, or really anything to do with the United Tailoresses’ Society. One online article outright stated, “We know very little about this speaker, Sarah Monroe, other than that she was a garment worker and president of the newly formed United Tailoress Society -- the first women-only union in the United States.” 

I am in awe of this working-class woman, Sarah Monroe, who is quoted by Michael Zakim as saying in 1831:

It needs no small share of courage for us, who have been used to impositions and oppression from our youth up to the present day, to come before the public in defense of our rights; but, my friends, if it is unfashionable for the men to bear oppression in silence, why should it not also become unfashionable with the women?

'The Tailor's Shop': 1838 lithograph by Carl Kunz and Johann Geiger

#1830s #fashion history #labor history #labour history #us history #sarah monroe #Eighteen-Thirties Thursday #united tailoresses' society #michael zakim #women's history #also i have been sleeping on michael zakim's book it's really good #there were many strikes by female garment workers in the time period #amazingly forward-thinking they were trying to get sick pay and retirement benefits #they also campaigned against prison labour #tailors #dress history #inequality #industrial relations #19th century

[djgblogger-blog]

How the devastating 1918 flu pandemic helped advance US women's rights

http://bit.ly/2oFAz9i

More women than men were left standing after the war and pandemic. Library of Congress, CC BY

When disaster strikes, it can change the fabric of a society – often through the sheer loss of human life. The 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami left 35,000 children without one or both parents in Indonesia alone. The Black Death killed more than 75 million people worldwide and more than a third of Europe’s population between 1347 and 1351.

While disasters are by definition devastating, sometimes they can lead to changes that are a small silver lining. The 2004 tsunami ended a civil conflict in Indonesia that had left 15,000 dead. The 14th century’s plague, probably the most deadly disaster in human history, set free many serfs in Europe, forced wages for laborers to rise, and caused a fundamental shift in the economy along with an increased standard of living for survivors.

One hundred years ago, a powerful strain of the flu swept the globe, infecting one third of the world’s population. The aftermath of this disaster, too, led to unexpected social changes, opening up new opportunities for women and in the process irreversibly transforming life in the United States.

The virus disproportionately affected young men, which in combination with World War I, created a shortage of labor. This gap enabled women to play a new and indispensible role in the workforce during the crucial period just before the ratification of the 19th Amendment, which granted women suffrage in the United States two years later.

Why did the flu affect men more than women?

Known as the Spanish flu, the 1918 “great influenza” left more than 50 million people dead, including around 670,000 in the United States.

To put that in perspective, World War I, which concluded just as the flu was at its worst in November 2018, killed around 17 million people – a mere third of the fatalities caused by the flu. More American soldiers died from the flu than were killed in battle, and many of the deaths attributed to World War I were caused by a combination of the war and the flu.

The war provided near perfect conditions for the spread of flu virus via the respiratory droplets exhaled by infected individuals. Military personnel – predominantly young males – spent months at a time in close quarters with thousands of other troops. This proximity, combined with the stress of war and the malnutrition that sometimes accompanied it, created weakened immune systems in soldiers and allowed the virus spread like wildfire.

When soldiers shipped out, influenza virus could be stowing away onboard. AP Photo

Overcrowding in training camps, trenches and hospitals created an ideal environment for the 1918 influenza strain to infect high numbers of people. In fact, the conditions of war helped the virus perfect itself through several waves of infection, each more deadly than the last.

Many troops were doomed before they even reached Europe, contracting the flu on the packed troop ships where a single infected soldier could spread the virus throughout. When soldiers returned to the U.S., they scattered to every state, bringing the flu along with them.

It was more than just male conscription in war, however, that led to a greater number of men who were infected and died from the flu. Even at home, among those that were never involved in the war effort, the death rate for men exceeded that of women. Demographic studies show that nearly 175,000 more men died than women in 1918.

In general, epidemics tend to kill more men than women. In disease outbreaks throughout history, as well as almost all of the world’s major famines, women have a longer life expectancy than men and often have greater survival rates.

The exact reason why men tend to be more vulnerable to the flu than women continues to elude researchers. The scoffing modern term “man flu” refers to the perception that men are overly dramatic when they fall ill; But recent research suggests that there may be more to it than just exaggerated symptoms.

The flu’s aftermath furthered a trend started by the war effort. AP Photo

Flu brought more women into the workforce

The severity of the epidemic in the U.S. was enough to temporarily shut down parts of the economy in 1918. In New England, coal deliveries were so severely affected that people, unable to keep their homes heated, froze to death at the height of winter. During the 1918 flu outbreak, researchers estimate businesses in Little Rock, Arkansas, saw a decline of 40 to 70 percent.

The worker shortage caused by the flu and World War I opened access to the labor market for women, and women in unprecedented numbers took jobs outside the home. Following the conclusion of the war, the number of women in the workforce was 25 percent higher than it had been previously and by 1920 women made up 21 percent of all gainfully employed individuals in the country. While this gender boost is often ascribed to World War I alone, women’s increased presence in the workforce would have been far less pronounced without the 1918 flu.

Women began to move into employment roles that were previously held exclusively by men, many of which were in manufacturing. They were even able to enter fields from which they had been banned, such as the textile industry. As women filled what had been typically male workplace roles, they also began to demand equal pay for their work. Gaining greater economic power, women began more actively advocating for various women’s rights issues – including, but not limited to, the right to vote.

Once a woman’s the boss, how can you deny her the vote? AP Photo

How the flu helped change people’s minds

Increased participation in the workforce allowed many women to obtain social and financial independence. Leadership positions within the workforce could now be occupied by women, especially in the garment industry, but also in the military and police forces. The U.S. even got its first woman governor, when Nellie Taylor Ross took her oath of office, in 1923, in Wyoming. An increased ability to make decisions in their personal and professional lives empowered many women and started to elevate their standing.

With the war over and increased female participation in the labor force, politicians could not ignore the critical role that women played in American society. Even President Woodrow Wilson began to argue in 1918 that women were part of the American war effort and economy more broadly, and as such, should be afforded the right to vote.

Outside of work, women also became more involved in community decision-making. Women’s changing social role increased support for women’s rights. In 1919, the National Federation of Business and Professional Women’s Clubs was founded. The organization focused on eliminating sex discrimination in the workforce, making sure women got equal pay and creating a comprehensive equal rights amendment.

The 1918 influenza pandemic was devastating. But the massive human tragedy had one silver lining: It helped elevate women in American society socially and financially, providing them more freedom, independence and a louder voice in the political arena.

The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

[southparkgodfather]

back at it again

1) Mun information: Name/Nickname: Shan Preferred pronouns: She/her Age: 15 Timezone: UTC

2) Muse information: Name: Wendy Testaburger Mob Alias: Black Widow Age: 19 Birthday: December 18th Height: 5'6 Mafia: La Cosa Nostra Appearance: Wendy usually wears her casual ‘Flapper’ attire - consisting of a dress that ends mid-thigh. From it, hangs many different and individual strings, all of which move in the same direction she walks. The garment is a dark purple in colour, the strings being black. It ends around her chest area, only the spaghetti-string straps keeping it so far up. Around the collar is a golden plate, all sorts of pearls and diamonds embedding into it. A pair of long, black silk gloves are worn, usually ending just above her elbow, a bracelet is worn over one on either arm. A feather boa of the same colour hangs loosely from her arms, acting as something similar to a shawl. A pair of long diamond earrings barely brush against her shoulders, matching her accompanying jewellery. Those familiar ebony locks are styled back into either a side-bun, or alternatively left to cascade effortlessly down the curve of her back. Atop them, a headband lays, a singular feather sticking out from the top. Her legs are left bare, only being covered by the single black garter that barely pokes out from underneath her dress, attached to it being a small holster - fit for any small weapon. Usually wears a pair of snazzy high heels, something dark in colour.

Occupation: Bait Girl (?)/Mercenary - Flappers are known for their disregard for social norms and usual gender roles by wearing excessive makeup, drinking, smoking, driving automobiles, and otherwise flouting social and sexual norms. Wendy, having no respect for the strict rules society had set up for her and her fellow women to live by, chose to join the movement that would shock the surrounding area. People are usually captivated by her uncaring nature, it entrancing them to no end. Taking this on board, Wendy uses their fascination against them by using her abilities to manipulate others into doing whatever it is needed by La Cosa Nostra, whether that be roping them into drug trades, alcohol bootlegging rings, or merely assassinating someone who proved to be a potential threat to her family.

Backstory: From a young age, Wendy never usually agreed with the fact that there was a thick border between the roles of a man in society, and that of a woman. She never really understood it. Having being raised in a strict mafia-riddled household, she was always brought up to be feminine and polite - the simple characteristics of the perfect female. This aggravated her. She could do anything a guy could do. Hell, she could lead her own mob! As times passed by, she was slowly introduced to the world of women who felt the same discrimination she did. This movement had its origins in the liberal period of the Roaring Twenties the social, political turbulence and increased transatlantic cultural exchange that followed the end of World War I. People had a similar mindset to her own, and slowly, the young girl adapted the Flapper lifestyle into her own, except less of the sexuality issues for her own personal preferences. At first, her father was furious. But, after some consultations with his fellow Mafia members, Wendy was deemed useful. She was strong, independent and still had that prominent femininity within her personality. It was a perfect balance between the two. And thus, Wendy “The Black Widow” Testaburger was born.

3) At least 5 headcanons about your muse:

- Carries around a thin pipe for decoration, would never truly smoke from it unless it was deemed necessary or she was overcome with stress. - The apple of her father’s eye. She usually reports back to him with either cash or reports on what she had achieved in her last mission. He rewards her with her own cut of the profit. - Usually carries around a tiny pistol within the holster around her thigh, sometimes a knife on more private occasions with a victim. - Her life has revolved around murder and crime, so she never really got to live a normal childhood. Despite this, she still carries an advanced intelligence and still makes time to focus on her studies when she isn’t on duty. - Very opinionated. Isn’t scared of the other Mafia members, and /will/ tell you if you’re being stupid without shame. - A perfectionist. Don’t expect Wendy to do a half-assed job. She will plan a perfect murder. - Destined to take over her father’s title one day, so she is set on proving herself capable.

4) Sample Paragraph, give at least 1-2 paragraphs that showcase your roleplaying, the only limit is your creativity:

The bar was clearing out now, drunks stumbling around aimlessly while yelling an array of nonsense. That, combined with the blaring jazz music that resonated throughout the joint, proved to be terribly loud. But, it was Friday night. An excuse to have fun, right? Not for Wendy. Her work never had a set schedule, she only had to act when she was called upon. Not like it bothered her, though. It wast hard, especially her current mission. Murders were usually simple, they never involved the extra work of having to manipulate /and/ trick someone into doing your dirty work. Plus, I mean, who wants to spend all night chasing after some lousy bum? She had her own life, too.

Standing in the corner of the bar, those icily coloured orbs scanned over the remaining crowd. She blinked, narrowing her eyes as she searched for her next victim. He was to be here tonight, surely. The reports given to her said so, and they had yet to let her down.

There he was, sitting over the bar with a woman on either arm. The raven scoffed, honestly disgusted at how someone could belittle themselves, especially that of a decent looking female. The man was prestigious, a well-known name throughout the community. He had it all, money, women, looks, cars, you name it. And he proved to be a serious threat to La Cosa Nostra.

Clearing her throat, Wendy took a seat on the opposing stool beside him, staring ahead at the drinks stocked behind the bar. Her hand rose to her lips, placing the pipe between it. She inhaled before retracting it, the smoke still in her mouth. “What’s a pretty lady like you doin’ all here alone, huh?” The man turned to her with a grin, gaze trailing up and down her figure hungrily. It was almost impossible to hold back the gag. What a sleaze bag. The two other women proved to be drunk off their asses, so they didn’t really give a shit that their beloved was talking to some other girl. But, unlike them, Wendy had class.

Turning, the young Testaburger looks at him, one leg crossing over the other. Her head falls, resting on the hand that had propped itself up against the wood. She exhaled, blowing a cloud of smoke into the man’s face. “I can come here and not have to leave on your arm.” Play it casual. Be yourself. That’s what gets them going the most. And so, she continued, shooting witty comments and intelligent replies in his direction. By the end of the night, he looked at her in awe.

The bar was empty now, only a few workers and stray drinkers left lingering around. Wendy and this male still sat at the top though, both laughing and cracking jokes as if they had known eachother a lifetime. She had to make them feel comfortable, thinking that she is far from a threat. Her hand is grabbed, and she is gently pulled from her seat. Her future victim clings onto her clothed digits loosely, quietly guiding her to the bathrooms. Of course, what else could someone like him want other than sex?

Wendy reached down, pulling up her skirt so that her holster was easily accessible. Grabbing the handle, she whips out a small dagger, flipping it open. The door closes behind the two as they’re squeezed into a tight bathroom stall, the light chatter and music was drowned out by the groans of pain emitting from the man, him clutching at his abdomen. His white suit soon turned a dark crimson as blood soaked into it. Wendy twists the knife that was inserted before pulling it up to his chest, slicing the skin deeply. He gasps, falling back against the wall for leverage. He slides down it, blood being smeared down the tiles as he falls into a sitting position on the toilet. The girl tears out her knife and shakes the remaining fluids from it. We couldn’t have it rust now, could we?

Those bright eyes stared down at the lifeless body in boredom. “Heh, wise guy.” This wasn’t anything new, just another death to add to the never ending list. If her calculations were correct, there should be a car outside waiting for her, judging by the time, anyways. It would take both her and the corpse to a disclosed location where she could fully rid of its remains.

Who knows what the newspaper headlines would say tomorrow? They’ll never know when The Black Widow may strike.

Accepted.

#application #suggestion #submission