Equal access to financial institutions, or the lack thereof did not seem to interfere with the success of the women I have described. Their financial independence indicates that women could achieve financial independence, although many did not. Even today there are women who depend on men to support them financially, although they are not forced to.

I am aware that more women depended on the financial support of a man in 1954 than in 2024. The reasons are varied and complex. The reasons for the decline in full-time homemaking probably include, but are not limited to the widespread availability of reliable oral contraception, the introduction of modern household appliances, and convenience food.

I understand that you are convinced that women in the 1950s were forced to depend on a man to support them financially. I see things differently. We have an unresolved difference of opinion on that issue. I'll leave it at that.

We can agree that men are not necessary to women's financial security. We differ on whether that is a new development.

Men have intrinsic value as human beings, just as women do. I value my existence - I value your existence.