The document, one in a series of four on women in American history, discusses the role of women during and after the Civil War (1860-1890). Designed to supplement high school U.S. history textbooks, the book is comprised of five chapters. Chapter I describes the work of Union and Confederate women ln the Civil War. Topics include the army nursing service, women in the military, and women who assumed the responsibilities of their absent husbands. Chapter II focuses on black and white women educators for the freed slaves during the Reconstruction Era. Excerpts from diaries reveal the experiences of these teachers. Chapter III describes women on the Western frontier. Again, excerpts from letters and diaries depict the Lewis and Clark guide, Sacajawea; pioneer missionaries adjusting to frontier life; and the experiences of women on the Western trail. Employment and equality on the frontier are also discussed. Chapter IV notes the progress of women after the Civil War. Although women were still excluded from political leadership, they began participating more actively in industry, education, and the professions. Topics include women in law, medicine, science, and architecture. Chapter V focuses on women's organizations: labor, the suffrage movement, and social clubs. Questions and suggested activities are found at the end of each chapter. (KC)