During World War II, women formed the backbone and muscle for the war production effort, working in plants that produced planes, tanks and ships in staggering numbers. The campaign promoting this effort used a character, "Rosie the Riveter," to inspire and to give credit to the tremendous sacrifice and commitment that won the war on the home front. It has since become a prolific feminist, "can do" image. Naomi Parker Fraley, who was the original model for "Rosie" while working in a California factory, passed away Saturday at the age of 96.
In the Women's March this past weekend, the "Rosie the Riveter" icon was visible everywhere, for example, below, in Saturday's Sioux Falls, SD march.
The iconic image has been modified and adapted over time to send the message that, as never before, women united in a mission are an indomitable force.
(photo: Briana Sanchez, The Argus Leader)
