A three-part documentary series that tells the story of how women overcame gender discrimination and segregation on America's most beloved road. This series documents the extraordinary lives and achievements of women who overcame gender discrimination and segregation to build fulfilling lives and legacies on America's most iconic highway. From entrepreneurs and waitresses, anthropologists and politicians, to artists and military sergeants, these women transformed their communities and the American West through their hard work, perseverance and ingenuity. World War II brought renewed energy and purpose to Route 66 as the country suddenly needed to transport men and women, arms and ammunition from one coast to the other. Hospitality work was viewed as a natural extension of the domestic sphere, and on Route 66 many women worked in family businesses providing food and lodging. During wartime, however, it was considered not only possible but patriotic for women to move out of low paying jobs and perform highly skilled, dangerous work like sorting ammunition. After World War II, when they were told that they should surrender their jobs and return home, some women created vibrant businesses on their own.

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