I have to say this. If it weren't for the deep-seated cultural codes and religious beliefs, namely Christianity, over the ages, I believe being a women would be a whole lot more difficult than the modern woman can ever imagine.
As soon as you said that I went to imagining Hitlery in a black Burka! (http://www.eastessence.com/islamic-clothing/abaya-and-jilbab/Burqa-with-Niqab_7.html)
Instead of a hijab, though, I envisioned a pointed hat and a broom accessory pack!