Barriers to Women University Pioneers: a Transnational View

Abstract

The entrance of women in university studies occurred after overcoming many difficulties. In some cases that entry was impeded by the universities themselves. In other cases, by the governments of the countries. But also by those who were exercising the professions that demanded that higher education. Everyone judged that this type of studies was not suitable or convenient for a woman. However, many young women made a courageous decision and showed an enviable will to meet their expectations, in order to obtain a university degree. The objective of this article is to offer an approach to the concrete circumstances that women in different countries of Europe and America have overcome. With a methodology of historical character, different sources have been consulted: Univer sity archives, published autobiographies and bibliography available in several countries on this subject.