Based on interviews conducted with 42 Irish women, the stories of their working lives are located in the broader context of their family life experiences, schooling, aspirations and entry into work, job descriptions, working conditions and overall careers. The interconnections between their work and social lives as well as their public and private roles are explored. What paid work meant to women in terms of their sense of self is also considered. Despite the obstacles women encountered at this time in terms of limited access to education, restricted employment opportunities and profound gender discrimination, the evidence gathered in this book challenges the commonplace perception of this neglected period as one of domestic drudgery and economic inactivity for women.