The Home Front” & “Visions of Postwar Freedom”

🏭 22.2 — The Home Front & 22.3 — Visions of Postwar Freedom

Mobilization & Industry

Effect

The federal government coordinated mass production of weapons, ships, and planes; factories converted to war production and unemployment disappeared.

Change or Continuity

Major change — the government took unprecedented control over industry compared to the prewar economy.

Workers & Organized Labor

Effect

Labor unions gained influence as workers were needed for war production; strikes decreased due to government pressure and no-strike pledges.

Change or Continuity

Partial change — unions grew stronger than before, but cooperation with government limited worker activism.

Propaganda

Effect

The government used posters, films, and media to promote unity, patriotism, and support for the war.

Change or Continuity

Continuity — similar propaganda had been used during World War I to influence public opinion.

Women

Effect

Women entered industrial and military support jobs, symbolized by “Rosie the Riveter.”

Change or Continuity

Change during wartime, but continuity after — many women were pushed back into traditional roles once the war ended.

Veterans

Effect

Returning soldiers received education, job training, and housing assistance through the GI Bill.

Change or Continuity

Major change — expanded federal responsibility and helped create a larger middle class.