What did nuns do before Vatican II?

Before Vatican II, nuns primarily engaged in traditional roles focused on education, healthcare, and charitable work within their communities. Many lived in cloistered environments, adhering to strict rules of prayer and contemplation. Their activities often revolved around teaching in Catholic schools, running orphanages, and providing support to the poor and sick. This period emphasized a structured, hierarchical approach to religious life, with a strong focus on maintaining the customs and practices of the Church.