Life in the colony of Victoria during the 19th century was very difficult for women. If unable to cope without husbands or work they'd survive by theft or prostitution. Life in prison was of course, no better. Although men and women were held in separate cells they were still in close contact of each other and the women were often exposed to degrading and dangerous situations. The prison officers were more fierce and rough towards …
showed first 75 words of 264 total

showed last 75 words of 264 total
…baby. Despite petitions against her execution, Emma was hanged. Emma's story represents the actions some women were forced to take in order to survive during the 1800's. Eventually, action was taken to make life better for women; they were separated entirely from the men in prison and a woman's refuge shelter was built for those who were struggling to cope. Since then, many more shelters have been built and general treatment of woman has improved.