The Iran-Iraq war (1980-88) was a period in which Iranian women took on roles integral to the preservation of Iran's society, as the men fought in the war. <br><br>These women formed neighbourhood charity organisations that helped deliver food, cash and clothing to troops. They hand-sewed the troops’ shelter and clothing. Their roles, however, were not limited to traditional roles for women, such as cooking or taking care of the children. Iranian women of all ages helped by making Molotov cocktails, recruiting soldiers, fostering orphans, nursing veterans back to health and creating war literature detailing and recording the history of Iran's war era. <br><br>They were also known to be involved in intelligence-related matters. Iranian women defended their land, acting as spies, teachers and nurses. On the border between Iran and Iraq, Iraqi soldiers would attempt to force women and children out of their homes. Many women refused to leave and defended themselves with weapons. They were able to successfully protect their homes and Iran’s border against Iraqi soldiers. <br><br>In addition, Iranian women’s support did not stop after the war ended. They also helped with the reintroduction of war veterans back into society. The women were, however, forced back into second-class roles, as Iranian men became priority in the eyes of the government. They lost university and job privileges, confining them to household jobs.<br>