ObjectivesTo test for social structural effects on the gender paradox in suicidal behaviour.MethodsWe analyzed newspaper reports of completed and attempted suicides in the Scottish city of Dundee during the mass movement of women into the paid labour force in the 19th and early 20th Centuries. We calculated rates of suicides per 100,000 of the male and female populations.ResultsWe found that the female suicide rate dropped during this time period, whereas there was only a significant reduction in attempted suicide amongst men.ConclusionsOur understanding, and action to prevent, suicide in men and women must take place in the context of our gendered social world.