These real-life Rosie the Riveters changed the face of labor

When America entered World War II after the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor, it did so fully, committing all of its assets. As the men stepped into battle across Europe and in the Pacific theater, women entered the workforce, occupying the roles of their husbands, brothers, and sons.

Nearly 350,000 women volunteered to serve in the army both at home and abroad. Those housewives and students were suddenly in uniform, driving trucks, repairing airplanes, fixing engines, rigging parachutes, and manning aircrafts that acted as flying targets during training. It was a whole new world and they rose to the challenge, even though their efforts would be largely ignored, their jobs void once the men returned home from war.

In honor of these hardworking Americans, here is a selection of beautifully vivid photos of a time when the country ran on womanpower.

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