America (call) a democracy(民主国家) since its independence(独立) more than 200 years ago. However, at that time, only men (allow) to vote. Women could not get a higher education or (hold) public office. The woman's place (think) to be the home. Working women were not common. They usually (have) poor jobs and little respect.

    Slowly, however, the chances for women (increase). In the early part of last century, American women were allowed to vote and universities (set) up for women. Since the Second World War, American women (become) a large part of the American workforce(劳动力).

    Today, many women in America hold important positions, but many women (not please) with the current situation. They point out that in many cases women (pay) less than men for the same work they do. So they demand(要求) that women should be paid as much as men for the same work.