This book is the first edition of what is to be an annual report on the status of women in the United States. It presents information concerning changes in U.S. women's roles and analyzes the social and political consequences of these changes. This premier edition provides a broad overview of how women's lives have changed during the 20th century, with special emphasis on their roles in families and in the U.S. economy. Chapter titles and authors include: (1) "Women in Twentieth Century America: An Overview" (S. M. Evans); (2) "Women and the Family" (A. Cherlin); (3) "Women and the Economy" (N. Barrett); (4) "The Women's Movement in Recent American Politics" (M. L. Palley); and (5) "1986 in Review" (A. J. Stone). A section entitled "Women in Brief" includes a series of chapters that describe women in relation to business, the military, science, broadcasting, sports, unions, education, theatre, and reproduction alternatives and options and the status of black, latino, and immigrant women. Appendices include: (1) a statistical summary about U.S. women; (2) chapter notes; (3) references; (4) information about contributors; and (5) information about the Women's Research and Education Institute. Tables, figures, and pictures are included. (JHP)