the homefront

What does it take to win a war? Good soldiers, yes. (This is why they used a draft to get more soldiers into the war and skilled professionals, such as doctors, into the military) Great equipment, sure. However, none of this is possible without the "home front." The home front is the entire contribution of the civilian population toward winning the war.

Soldiers need supplies. Therefore, during World War II, American factories shifted from making consumer products to making tanks, bombs, jets and tires for the troops. People were encouraged to re-use and recycle, so that America could use more scrap metal in creating military supplies. Many women and minorities worked in the factories to produce the supplies needed by troops in battle. Civilians had to ration (forced to use less) gasoline so that Americans could use the gas for their tanks and aircraft.

Soldiers need food. Therefore, Americans were asked to eat less and send more food to the battlefield. Certain towns passed "no meat" days, which would ensure that more meat could go into the canned meat that the soldiers ate. Although this was the case, many people believe this was just a ploy to raise morale. If the morale was high and the Americans believed in the war cause, the soldiers would remain hopeful.

Finally, Americans needed more money to win the war. For this reason, America raised money through treasury war bonds. Basically, they borrowed from the American people at a low interest rate, knowing they would eventually pay it off.

Questions

1. How did American civilians help in World War II?
   
2. In your opinion, which was the most important way that they helped out? Why?
3. Should America do any of these things to help us win in Iraq and Afghanistan? Describe why or why not.