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Time-Series Growth in the Female Labor Force

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Abstract

In this paper we investigate the reasons for the growth in the female labor force in America during the twentieth century. In our research, we study the longer-term trends since 1900 and conduct a more intensive examination of developments after the Second World War. On the basis of our work, we conclude that rising real wages accounted for 60% of the total growth in the female labor force. Half of this wage effect in expanding labor supply was the fertility-reducing consequence of a higher female wage.

Journal of Labor Economics

Volume 3, Number 1, Part 2Jan., 1985Part 2: Trends in Women's Work, Education, and Family Building

Published for the Society of Labor Economists, Economics Research Center/ NORC

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https://doi.org/10.1086/298076

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Time-Series Growth in the Female Labor Force

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