Rosie the Riveter

Probably my favorite souvenir that I brought back with me from Washington DC was a Rosie the Riveter lunch box. Rosie inspires me and helps me to remember that "I Can Do It!" The Rosie The Riveter Story: WWII profoundly changed the status of American women. As the military's need for manpower increased, so did industry's need for womanpower. In 1940-1944 over six million women joined the workforce. Despite initial concerns, by WWII's end women had proven to be an invaluable and formidable force in the War effort. The "WE CAN DO IT!" poster created in 1943 by J. Howard Miller, encouraged women entering the workforce. 1942's "Rosie the Riveter," a popular homefront song, became a nickname for women in the workforce. As men returned from WWII most women left the factories. But the confidence, competence and earning power they had experienced forever changed the American workplace. Over time Rosie has become an icon symbolizing women's strength, determination and ability to do any job.