The Great Depression: New Fears, New Strategies, 1925–1935

Abstract

Although migration began to slow by 1927 and was almost completely halted by 1930, the SOSBW did not cease its activities. Rather, it used the downturn in migration as an opportunity to refocus and rearticulate its efforts. During this period, the Society began to advocate for gender equity in migration, asserting that it was not a problem that women should or could solve on their own. Additionally, it began to devote more attention to education and training to ensure the future viability of its emigration activities. By sending educated and capable women overseas, the SOSBW hoped to better serve the imperial project by reducing the number of women who were deported back to Britain and, simultaneously, offer women more desirable, professional opportunities for work abroad.