It was another new beginning for Kathleen. For women of her generation, their increased participation in the economy and society would become one of the most significant changes in Canada in the quarter century following World War Two. The war years had seen many women move from low—paid or domestic jobs and unskilled occupations to higher—paid, skilled positions. The participation rate of women in the workforce was under 25 percent in 1939; by 1945, it had risen to more than 33 percent. The average weekly wage of women went from $12.78 to $20.89.

However, the end of the war brought about a significant change in attitudes. Political leaders were anXious to reintegrate veterans returning from overseas into the labour force, and males were given preferential treatment in the job market. Social policy came to regard the proper role of women “in the capacity of housewife.” As such, the 1950s were a period of retrenchment for the role of women. Women were encouraged to only enter the labour market when the economy reached such a

level that their employment would “not prevent men from obtaining positions,” according to one federal government document.

Also contributing to the declining number was a shift in social policy. Daycares which had been opened during the war were closed, women were barred from some federal jobs and the income tax system imposed discriminatory measures against married women. Married women also faced restrictions when making application for unemployment insurance. Women once more were relegated to marginal positions, both socially and economically. As a result, the participation of women in the labour force dropped to a level even below that which had been reached prior to the war. As a result, many women left their jobs to start a family — and the baby boom began.

The 1950s were marked by phenomenal rates of economic growth, along with increasing national birth rates. The average Canadian living wage skyrocketed, and society was transformed by a wave of scientific and technological advances that would result in a cure for polio, put men in space and lead to a better life. Underlying all of this was the upsurge of popular culture, perhaps best manifested by the rise of rock—and—roll. If “the Fabulous Fifties” implied good times and few worries, it was also the

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