Why did the new deal work programs place a greater emphasis on employing men than women?

The New Deal work programs primarily emphasized employing men over women due to prevailing gender norms that positioned men as the primary breadwinners during the Great Depression. Societal beliefs of the time viewed men as needing jobs to support their families, while women were often seen as secondary earners or homemakers. Additionally, many programs were designed to alleviate male unemployment specifically, reinforcing traditional roles and limiting opportunities for women in the workforce. This focus reflected both economic priorities and cultural attitudes of the era.