5. [AP audit] In the 1960s, Western European women's lives were significantly changed by the

a. widespread use of oral contraceptives

b. a traditional backlash against the feminist movement

c. achievement of complete wage equality with men

d. withdrawal of married women from the workforce

e. abolition of the welface state

e. not welface but welfare

Sra

To find the correct answer to this question, we can analyze the options given and eliminate the ones that do not align with the statement provided. The question asks about the significant changes in Western European women's lives during the 1960s. Let's evaluate each option:

a. The widespread use of oral contraceptives: This could have led to significant changes in women's lives by giving them greater control over their reproductive choices and allowing them to plan their families.

b. A traditional backlash against the feminist movement: This option suggests that there was a negative response to the feminist movement, which might have hindered significant changes in women's lives.

c. Achievement of complete wage equality with men: This option implies that women attained equal pay to men during the 1960s. While progress towards gender equality might have been made, it is unlikely that complete wage equality was achieved during this time period.

d. Withdrawal of married women from the workforce: This option suggests that married women chose to leave the workforce, which may have had an impact on their lives. However, it is unclear whether this was a common occurrence or whether it led to significant changes for Western European women as a whole.

e. Abolition of the welfare state: This option states that the welfare state was abolished, which could have had significant implications for women's lives. However, it should be noted that the welfare state plays a larger role in society beyond just women's lives.

After evaluating the options, the most likely answer is option a. The widespread use of oral contraceptives. This advancement in reproductive technology led to significant changes in women's lives, granting them more control over their reproductive choices and allowing them to pursue education, careers, and personal goals.

Therefore, the correct answer to the question is: a. widespread use of oral contraceptives.