Women in war

Throughout history, women have assumed diverse roles during periods of war, contributing to war efforts in various capacities.

In more ancient times, women often accompanied armies on campaigns, primarily taking on roles such as cooking, laundry, and other support tasks as relations or camp followers. They contributed by tending to the wounded, preparing basic medical supplies, and assisting with various logistical needs of the soldiers. Over time, as warfare evolved, women's roles expanded, including work in areas like munitions production by the mid-19th century.

During World War I and World War II, the primary role of women shifted towards employment in munitions factories, agriculture and food rationing, and other areas to fill the gaps left by men who had been drafted into the military. One of the most notable changes during World War II was the inclusion of many of women in regular military units. In several countries, including the Soviet Union, Nazi Germany, and the United Kingdom in the European Theater, as well as China and Imperial Japan in the Pacific Theater, women served in combat roles, such as anti-aircraft warfare, guerrilla warfare, and direct engagement in frontline battles. Additionally, women were also active in underground and resistance movements.

After 1945, the roles available to women in major armies were significantly reduced. However, beginning in the 1970s, women gradually assumed increasing roles in the military of major nations, eventually including combat positions such as pilots by 2005 in the United States. These new combat roles sparked controversy, with debates centered around differences in physical capabilities between the sexes^[1] and issues related to gender identity for both women and men.^[2]