Where are the women in the history of (Dutch) physics?
By now we are well aware why women are mostly missing in the history of physics (and science) and why their role has been supportive rather than leading. It is fair to note that in 17th and 18th century, women were not seen as unsuited for science. Teaching science to girls was deemed important, and certainly in the Netherlands (1). However, in the course of the time (2nd half of 19th century and onwards), their role in science, in accordance with culture that strictly distinguished between genders and assigned females a supportive and family role, having to choose between family and work, lack of social security in society has become more and more sidelined, and gave men the role that we so clearly see until today.
Interested in women in physics in the past? Some suggestions where to start: