The German Home Front in WW2

Flashcards covering the impact of World War II on German civilians, including rationing, total war, air raids, and labor.

How did rationing affect German civilians during WW2?

Rationing led to shortages of food, clothes, and other essentials; many Germans faced malnutrition.

What was the wartime diet like for German civilians?

The diet consisted mostly of bread, potatoes, and preserves, making it monotonous.

What were the conditions for Jews regarding food rationing?

Jewish food entitlements were set below those of 'Aryan Germans'.

What happened to clothing production in Germany by 1943?

The production of civilian clothing was suspended to focus on war efforts.

What was Total War in the context of WWII Germany?

It was the mobilization of German society and the economy for war production, starting in 1942.

What impact did the Allied bombing campaigns have on German cities?

They caused massive destruction, killing hundreds of thousands, and creating millions of refugees.

How many German homes were destroyed due to the bombing campaigns?

3.6 million homes were destroyed, resulting in 7.5 million people being homeless.

What was the Volkssturm?

A defense force established in 1944 to boost morale and defend against advancing Allies.

What effect did the bombing raids have on German civilian morale?

Civilians initially showed defiance, but their morale weakened as bombings intensified.

How did the war affect labor in Germany?

With 13.7 million men in the army, there was a labor shortage, leading to women's employment in factories.

What was the policy regarding women's work during the war?

Women aged 17-45 were required to register for work, though many did not participate.

What percentage of the German workforce was made up of foreigners by 1943?

21% of the German workforce consisted of foreigners, including many in slave labor conditions.

What happened to German civilians as the Russian army advanced in 1944-1945?

Many fled westward to avoid reprisals, leading to a significant number of refugees.

What consequences did the bombing campaigns have on urban areas in Germany?

They created thousands of refugees as entire cities were destroyed or burnt down.

What role did women play in the German war effort?

Women worked in arms factories, as medics, and participated in a compulsory farm labor service.

What year did Total War begin in WWII Germany?

Total War began in 1942.

By what year did 3.6 million German homes get destroyed due to bombing campaigns?

By 1945, 3.6 million German homes had been destroyed.

What was the percentage of the German workforce that consisted of foreigners in 1943?

In 1943, 21% of the German workforce was made up of foreigners.

How many men were in the German army, contributing to the labor shortage during the war?

There were 13.7 million men in the German army.

In what year was the Volkssturm established?

The Volkssturm was established in 1944.

What was the number of refugees created due to the bombing campaigns in urban areas?

The bombing campaigns created thousands of refugees.

How many women were required to register for work during the war?

Women aged 17-45 were required to register for work.

What was the situation for Jewish food entitlements in relation to Aryan Germans?

Jewish food entitlements were set below those of 'Aryan Germans'.