During Tabitha Babbitt's lifetime, women's roles in society were largely confined to the domestic sphere. Opportunities for education, professional careers, and public recognition were limited. Inventing and patenting were primarily male domains.

The Shaker community provided a more egalitarian environment for women compared to mainstream society. Women held leadership positions, participated in various crafts and industries, and were valued for their contributions to the community's well-being. This created an environment where Babbitt's ingenuity could be nurtured.

The mid-19th century saw the rise of the women's rights movement, advocating for greater equality in education, employment, and political participation. While Tabitha Babbitt's contributions predated the height of this movement, they reflected a similar spirit of challenging traditional gender roles.

Gradually, women gained greater access to education and opportunities in STEM fields. The late 19th and 20th centuries saw an increase in the number of women inventors and their recognition in patents and industry. However, gender bias continues to be a factor in these fields.