The most important development that occurs in bettering the position of any section of society is done by increasing their reach to quality education. 20th century promoted higher education for women. This not only allowed them to pursue degrees but also get professionally trained in various fields, as compared to what it was in the 19th century. 

Another development was that women started challenging the traditional gender roles. This led to major shifts in lifestyles and greater social acceptance of women pursuing careers. In the 19th century, as we know, the expectations of women’s roles as merely wives and mothers were very rigid.

With the coming of the 20th century, women started gaining significant legal rights too. The right to vote or suffrage was where it all started, slowly gaining the right to own property, and even equal pay for equal work. 

The improvements in the reproductive rights of women which came with access to contraception and better control over their own bodies was another major change.

The 20th century also saw a dramatic shift in women’s clothing where more practical and less restrictive clothing gained popularity. This reflected greater personal freedom and mobility as compared to the elaborate fashions of the 19th century.