Watch The Life and Times of Rosie the Riveter

The Life and Times of Rosie the Riveter, released in 1980, is a documentary film that tells the story of women who worked in the factories and shipyards during World War II. The film is directed by Connie Field and features interviews with a number of real-life "Rosies" who share their experiences of working in traditionally male-dominated industries during a time of war.

The film is divided into four parts, each of which explores a different aspect of the Rosie experience. The first part looks at the recruitment and training of women to work in the factories and shipyards. It shows how women responded to the call for help from the government and joined the workforce in large numbers.

The second part of the film focuses on the working conditions that women faced in these industries. The film shows how women often had to work long hours in difficult and hazardous conditions, sometimes with little or no training. Some of the women interviewed in the film talk about the injuries they suffered on the job and the lack of safety precautions that were in place.

The third part of the film examines the social consequences of women working outside the home during the war. The film shows how the Rosie experience challenged traditional gender roles and offered women new opportunities for self-expression and fulfillment. At the same time, the film also highlights the opposition that some women faced from their families and communities when they chose to work.

The final part of the film looks at the legacy of the Rosie experience. The film shows how the women who worked in the factories and shipyards during World War II paved the way for future generations of women to enter the workforce and achieve greater economic independence. The film also examines the ways in which the Rosie experience has been commemorated and celebrated in popular culture, including the famous "Rosie the Riveter" poster that has become an iconic symbol of female empowerment.

Overall, The Life and Times of Rosie the Riveter is a fascinating and inspiring documentary that sheds light on an important chapter in American history. Through interviews with real-life Rosies, the film offers a firsthand account of the challenges and opportunities that women faced during World War II, and the profound impact that their contributions had on American society. Whether you are a history buff or simply interested in learning more about the experiences of women in the workforce, The Life and Times of Rosie the Riveter is definitely worth a watch.