America at War

This section explores the role America played during World War II. The surprise attack on Pearl Harbor on 7 December 1941 marked a dramatic turning point for the United States, effectively ending its policy of isolationism. The bombing prompted the US to join World War Two, a global conflict that was now viewed as vital to the nation's survival. As a result, America's military, resources, citizens, and economy were mobilised on an unprecedented scale to support the war effort. The country had to make extraordinary changes to its society and economy, with the impact of the war being felt across all aspects of life.

Economic Recovery

The Second World War ultimately resolved many of America’s economic problems. Although the country faced some shortages and the introduction of rationing, it was not invaded or bombed on its own soil, allowing its economy to recover and expand rapidly. As the demand for goods and supplies to support the war effort grew, so did the economy. Key factors contributing to this economic growth included:

The War Production Board (WPB): Created in January 1942, the WPB was responsible for converting industries from peacetime production to war production. This led to:

• A significant decrease in unemployment between 1940 and 1943 as factories and industries expanded to meet wartime needs.
• Manufacturing output nearly doubled in response to the requirements of the armed forces and the lend-lease program that sent vital supplies to Britain and the Soviet Union.
• Agricultural recovery was also key to wartime production, with food production rising by nearly a third to supply the military and civilians.
• The demand for traditional industries like coal, iron, and steel increased, boosting production and employment in those sectors.
• Aircraft production boomed throughout 1944 as the country ramped up its supply of warplanes.
• The automobile industry, which had previously been focused on consumer vehicles, pivoted to manufacturing tanks, trucks, and military jeeps.

While the economy boomed, the war effort also ensured that the United States emerged from the Great Depression, with millions of jobs created across various sectors, and the standard of living improved for many families.

The Experiences of Women During the War

World War Two provided unprecedented employment opportunities for women in the United States. With large numbers of men enlisted in the armed forces, women stepped in to fill crucial roles in factories, offices, and military services. By 1943, women accounted for approximately a third of the workforce, significantly contributing to the nation’s industrial and agricultural output.

• Women were employed in fields that had traditionally been reserved for men, such as shipbuilding, mechanics, and riveting. They also worked in ammunition factories, and many took on roles in the aviation industry, building planes and working as pilots.
• Despite the high demand for female labour, women were often paid less than their male counterparts for doing the same work.
• Women’s Armed Services: Over 150,000 women served in non-combat roles in various branches of the armed forces, including the Women’s Army Corps (WAC) and the United States Naval Women’s Reserve (WAVES). These women performed vital support roles, such as clerks, telephone operators, and radio operators.
• Additionally, over 1,000 women joined the Women Airforce Service Pilots (WASP), flying military aircraft from factories to airbases, making significant contributions to the war effort.

The war marked a turning point in the social and economic roles of women in the United States. While many women returned to traditional roles after the war, the experience led to lasting changes in the workforce and attitudes toward women in employment.

The Experiences of African Americans During the War

The Second World War also brought significant social changes for African Americans, although racial discrimination remained a major issue. Over 1 million African Americans found employment in industrial centres in the North and West, and many earned higher wages than before. However, they were often relegated to low-status jobs and denied opportunities to advance or learn new skills.

• Asa Philip Randolph, the leader of the Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters, led efforts to address racial discrimination in wartime industries. He threatened to organise a march on Washington, D.C., involving 50,000 people, to demand fair treatment for African American workers. In response, President Roosevelt issued Executive Order 8802 in 1941, which prohibited racial discrimination in defence industries. However, the order was not effectively enforced, and African Americans continued to face segregation and unequal treatment, especially in the South.
• The National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), along with other civil rights organisations, supported the Double V campaign. This campaign called for victory against the Axis powers abroad, as well as victory against racism and segregation at home.
• Although over 1 million African Americans fought in the war, including in combat roles, racial segregation and discrimination continued to permeate the military. For example, African American soldiers were often segregated into separate units and were given fewer opportunities for leadership positions. However, many African American soldiers earned high praise for their bravery and dedication, and their service helped fuel the civil rights movement after the war.

The war highlighted both the contributions and challenges faced by African Americans in the fight for a more equal society. While there were improvements, racial inequality remained entrenched in American society, and the struggle for civil rights would continue for decades.

World War Two fundamentally transformed the United States, from the economy to social norms. The war effort helped lift the nation out of the Great Depression, providing millions of jobs and boosting industrial output. It also marked a significant shift in the roles of women and African Americans, though many challenges and inequalities remained. The legacy of the war would continue to shape American society long after the defeat of the Axis powers.