This book discusses women's roles in Illinois history from the Indian period and the frontier through the Civil War, the Progressive Era, world wars and depressions to the 1970's. It relates these roles to the larger process of historical development. The authors wrote the book for all those seeking to enlarge their understanding of Illinois history. Chapters one through five describe (1) the varied work and the status of American Indian women and the marriage customs of these early times; (2) the hardships and harsh hazards faced by frontier women in Illinois; (3) women's efforts during the Civil War; (4) the period from 1870 to 1920 when women actively sought to improve their legal, economic, and social position; and (5) the women's movement from the 1920s to the present. The last chapter describes and provides information on the Carbondale Women's Center, the Institute of Women Today, the Illinois Women's Agenda, women's health care, the Coalition of Labor Union Women, and the Equal Rights Amendment in Illinois. A bibliography of books which treat the activities of Illinois women is also included. (Author/RM)