Why did gender discrimination in the workplace become a major issue only relatively recently?

Gender discrimination in the workplace became a major issue relatively recently due to the rise of the feminist movements in the 20th century, particularly during the 1960s and 1970s, which brought awareness to the systemic inequalities women faced. Additionally, economic shifts and the increasing participation of women in the workforce highlighted disparities in pay and opportunity, prompting calls for equality. Legal advancements, such as the Equal Pay Act and Title IX, further catalyzed discussions around workplace discrimination, making it a prominent social issue. As societal norms evolved, the focus on gender equality gained momentum, leading to ongoing advocacy for fair treatment in professional environments.