American and Italian women have made significant advances in the workplace over the 20th century. In the early 1900s, women in both countries mainly worked in agriculture or factories under difficult conditions. By the mid-20th century, many women gained employment in factories during World War II, though faced discrimination returning to the workforce post-war. Today, women in both countries have achieved greater equality and representation in the workplace and government, holding high-level positions, though barriers still remain.