Native American Women In Waterlily

“Approximately 18% of women entered the work force in the early 1900s” (Interesting Facts). Life for American women and Native American women during this time saw several changes. There were many differences and similarities between their lives. The book Waterlily tells about the life of a Native American woman, through the eyes of the main character, Waterlily. In the early 1900’s, although there was an outbreak of many diseases and consequently, an abundance of hardships, many women worked, thrived, and were influential in their jobs. Women experienced many losses from diseases, harsh weather, and lack of sufficient medical supplies. In contrary, some women began to move and to start a career. America was still a new country in this time

The average Native American woman had a important role in the tribe. Women had many jobs including farming, taking care of the children, and household responsibilities. “And now it was autumn, it was time for gathering buffalo berries for winter use” (Deloria 221). Some of the more powerful women had jobs such as prophets, medicine women, and even warriors. Native American women were considered a source of life, provided family consistency, and a feeling of strength. They had children and were responsible for raising them. “The way to raise their young is as you raise yours, with love and tender and care" (Pg.116). Native American women were admired for their hard work and dedication to family. They were considered the source of all life and held important positions and rank within a tribe. They assisted with important duties and worked along side the men of the tribe. After the men killed the buffalo, the women would use every part of the buffalo to create moccasins and clothing. They would help to skin the animal and dry out the meat. During this time Native American women did things for fun as well, including making many beautiful crafts. In Waterlily, her aunt made her a very beautiful beaded dress and porcupine quill moccasins for her special ceremony. " Two whole years were spent making the dress for the ceremony" (Deloria 74). These tight bonds and

American women started entering the work force in the early 1900s. “Women started to purse a college education, worked for fair labor laws, and increased political freedoms” (Women in the 1920s). At this point some women were competing for the same jobs that men had. Native American women were much different than American women. They were different because of culture, tradition, and their duties. "A people is not defeated until the hearts of its women are on the ground" (The Shift). Some American women liked to stay home and had a large family to help her around the home. During times of war some American women became the head of the household. "Women made up about 18-20% of the work force" (Women’s International Center). Women began to become more accustomed to working during this time. The majority of their jobs were in factories and mills. Some women and children worked for ten to twelve hours a day. White women didn 't come in contact with Native women very often. They lived separate lives both geographically and culturally. “During the early 1900s, women and women 's organizations not only worked to gain the right to vote, they also worked for broad-based economic and political equality and for social reforms” (Women’s Suffrage). Women continue to fight for rights that give them equal opportunities even