Strange bans on women in American history

The United States, which has always regarded itself as democracy, freedom, and equality, has not been as enlightened in past history as it is today. There are many things that suppress women's rights or prohibit women from doing. If you don't believe me, you can read on.

1. Don't wear overly revealing swimsuits

In the 1920s, women going to the beach were required to follow strict rules that the area of exposed skin should not exceed a certain value. In fact, the only accusation some law enforcement officials make is using tape measures to measure women's swimsuits, and violators may be arrested.

2. Not allowed to participate in the Boston Marathon Before 1972, women were banned from participating in the Boston Marathon. In 1966, Roberta Gibb insisted on running the distance without being invited or registered. The following year, a woman named Katherine Switzer registered under the name "K.V. Switzer" and was given a number. Many men expressed anger at her, including race official Jock Semple-who cursed her, tried to tear off her number and tried to scare her off the track.

3. Not allowed to own credit cards until the United States passed the Equal Credit Opportunity Act in 1974, that women were allowed to obtain credit cards without a male guardian. Prior to this, single women were typically (legally) denied credit cards, and only married women could have a credit card if their husband was cosigner of the account.

4. Not allowed to work during pregnancy Once upon a time, it was illegal to hire pregnant women. It was not until 1978 that the Pregnancy Discrimination Act was passed to end this practice. Previously, it was normal for companies to fire pregnant employees. It is estimated that about 40% of employers would have insisted on this.

5. Not allowed to become astronauts until 1979, when NASA began accepting women for astronaut training. In 1983, Sally Ride became the first female astronaut to enter space.

6. Not allowed to serve on jurors In 1975, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that women could serve on jurors. Until then, it was believed that women could not withstand the violent details of certain criminal acts and would be too emotional to make rational judgments.

7. Smoking is not allowed in public places between 1908 and 1927, New York banned women from smoking in public places. In fact, smoking was rare among women until Edward Bernays launched a marketing campaign to give cigarettes the title of "Freedom Torch" and portray them as a symbol of gender equality.

8. No contraceptive pills

In 1957, contraceptives were approved by the FDA, but could only be used to treat irregular menstruation. It was only licensed for contraceptive use in 1960, but was only prescribed to married women. At the time, it was widely believed that contraceptives were immoral and would encourage prostitution.​