Prior to the Second World War, women used to work in homes mainly and they were expected to stay at home educate their children and look after their husband and families. But once the war broke out, more and more men were needed in the army and therefore, women were requested to come forward and join the factories and help in production so that the needs of military can be fulfilled. Women worked as electricians and nurses and spies as well. If my grandmother would have been from that period, then her service would mean freedom for her or an opportunity to earn the equal status as men in society by working those jobs that only men could do before the war.