Introduction

This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book traces several threads running through the fabric of Austrian history form the First Republic to the post-World War II era, in order to illuminate previously neglected aspects of the roles played by women. It examines the problematic question of the assimilation of Jewish women in Austria during the 1920s. The book provides an overview of “the contribution made by women to the political policies of National Socialism.” It focuses on “female resistance against Nazi fascism.” The book discusses the reasons why women and their commitment to the fight against National Socialism have remained generally ignored or accorded scant attention in the research of resistance movements and society. It considers the first generation of female members in the Austrian Parliament. The book also focuses the conditions of women in Austria’s economy.