56: Gender, Labor, and Economic Change in Early Modern Europe

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Have you ever wondered how Early Modern European women thrived in the workforce despite restrictions limiting their roles? Join us on a captivating journey through time as we promise a fresh perspective on gender, work, and economic transformation. This eye-opening exploration takes you beyond the grand narratives of international trade to reveal the diverse and vital roles women played in shaping the economic landscape of the time. From the remarkable story of Glückel of Hameln, a Jewish businesswoman who carved out a successful career in the diamond trade, to the resilient market women like Anna Weyland, who navigated complex regulations to maintain their livelihoods, we delve into the often-overlooked world of women's economic participation. We trace the transition from family-based economies to proto-industrialization, examining how these shifts impacted women's work and challenging common assumptions about gender roles in agriculture, commerce, and the guild system. Along the way, we'll unpack the "economy of makeshift" that defined many women's working lives and reflect on how this historical period continues to influence our modern understanding of gender and work. Join us for an enlightening journey through time that reveals women's ingenuity and perseverance in early modern Europe and provides new perspectives on the ongoing struggle for gender equality in the workplace.

Resources:
Women and Work In PreIndustrial Europe edited by Barbara Hanawalt

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Intro Music: Hayden Symphony #39
Outro Music: Vivaldi Concerto for Mandolin and Strings in D