The Life of Prostitutes During and After World War II
The Life of Prostitutes During and After World War II World War II had a profound impact on the lives of many people, including those who were forced into the profession of prostitution. The war disrupted the lives of millions of people, and for many women, it meant being forced into sexual slavery. 1940: Prostitutes entertaining a German officer in a brothel requisitioned for the use of Nazis. (Photo by Evans/Three Lions/Getty Images) Prostitution During the War With many men away fighting in the war, the demand for prostitution decreased in some areas. However, as the war progressed and Allied troops began to move into occupied territories, the demand for prostitution increased. In Europe, many women were forced into prostitution by the occupying forces, particularly the Red Army. These women, known as “camp followers,” were often young and had been taken by force. They were forced to provide sexual services to the soldiers and were often subject to abuse and mistreatment. Many o