This document discusses the evolution of gender equality from the 16th century to present day. It describes how women's roles have changed over time, from having limited opportunities and being expected to run households and better their husbands in past centuries, to gaining more rights and involvement in public life and the workforce in modern times. However, inequality still persists in areas like politics, wages and working conditions. The document concludes that while women and men are becoming more equal overall, equality in the workplace is still lacking.