The 20th century saw significant changes in the lives of Indian women. The Indian Independence Movement (1857-1947) and the subsequent establishment of a democratic government led to increased access to education and employment opportunities. The Constitution of India (1950) guaranteed equal rights and opportunities for women, and various laws, such as the Hindu Code Bills (1956), were enacted to improve their status. As a result, Indian women began to enter the workforce, pursue higher education, and participate in politics and public life.