Why was it difficult for American women to work outside the home before the 1920's?

Before the 1920s, American women faced significant societal and cultural barriers that made it difficult to work outside the home. The prevailing belief in separate gender roles dictated that women should focus on domestic duties and caregiving, while men were seen as the primary breadwinners. Additionally, many professions were closed to women, and those that were available often paid poorly and offered limited advancement opportunities. The lack of supportive policies, such as childcare services and flexible work hours, further hindered women's ability to enter the workforce.