Published By: Shriparna

Why women in 1950s America looked at Elizabeth II as a role model

With Elizabeth II at the throne,women could travel without their children, take responsibility, and be at the center of the photo.

There was something unsettling about Elizabeth's reign. During a time when many Americans were returning home to take pride in their kitchens, she was suddenly elevated to the position of head of state, and her every step was being talked about. This was an unusual occurrence, and it seemed to be augur well for other women.

In 1953, John Lagemann, a reporter for the Los Angeles Times, wrote about Elizabeth's reign and how it challenged the patriarchy. One of her most significant issues was her marriage. He noted that the situation had reversed and that the woman was now "commanding."

Women’s liberation movement

The observations of Lagemann provide a glimpse into Elizabeth's attitude toward women in America. Even as the women's liberation movement had helped shift some of the conversations, she still maintained her insistence on developing an alternative path. This one would allow women to travel without their children, take responsibility, and be at the center of the photo.

Many people around the world will remember Elizabeth II as a great leader. Among them are the American girls and granddaughters who traveled to London in 1953 to celebrate her coronation. They have not seen a female head of state in their country.

Through her own actions, Elizabeth had managed to capture the imagination of American women. A part of the reason for the interest in the royal family was Americans' affection for the British monarchy.

In 1953, Elizabeth was able to capture the imagination of American women. During a time when women in the US were expected to follow the traditional roles of homemaker and housewife, she was able to represent something different. According to a psychologist interviewed in a Los Angeles Times article, the women of the country had found a heroine who made them feel superior to men.

Long-standing affection

Like American women during the 20th century, the public's interest in the royal family had been following the evolution of Elizabeth from being a dutiful daughter to a young bride. During the 19th century, the public's interest in Queen Victoria's wedding and the Jubilee celebrations also grew.

Elizabeth did not need to play according to the rules of the game. Instead, she could be as imperious as she pleased. Even as the women's liberation movement began to change some of the conversations that she had been having, she still maintained her insistence on developing an alternative path. This could involve letting women travel without their children, taking responsibility for their actions, and becoming the center of the photograph.