ShanghaiShapellas

Shanghai Shapellas, also known as Shanghai Dolls, is a term used to describe a group of women who were recruited, trained, and sent to work in brothels in Shanghai, China, during the early 20th century. The practice began in the 1920s and reached its peak in the 1930s, with thousands of women from various backgrounds, including China, Japan, Korea, and other Asian countries, being recruited.

The recruitment process often involved deception and coercion, with women being promised jobs in legitimate businesses but instead being sent to work in brothels. The women were trained in various aspects of prostitution, including language skills, dance, and customer service. They were often subjected to harsh working conditions, including long hours, low pay, and physical and sexual abuse.

The Shanghai Shapellas were a significant part of the city's economy, generating substantial revenue for the brothel owners. However, their work also contributed to the spread of sexually transmitted diseases and the exploitation of women. The practice was widely condemned by international organizations and human rights groups, and efforts were made to shut down the brothels and rescue the women.

The Shanghai Shapellas are a poignant example of the exploitation and abuse of women in the early 20th century, and their story serves as a reminder of the importance of protecting and empowering women.