Social Impact of World War II on the United States

MAST High SchoolU.S. History – Period 4

Ms. Richardson

Impact of U.S. Entry to WWII: Women

• Labor shortages -> more women (37%) entered the work force.

• Between 1940 and 1944, married women made up over 72% of workforce.

• Rosie the Riveter became a popular icon on U.S.– Symbolized the women

who worked in defense.

Impact of U.S. Entry to WWII: African Americans

• Made up 20% of the military forces (segregated units)

• Increased job opportunities

• Less segregation & racism than WWI.

• A. Philip Randolph threatened a march on Washington - Led FDR to issue Executive Order 8802

-Creates the Fair Employment Practices Commission

Disruptions at Home• The war caused disruptions at

home-Shortages of supplies let to

rationing (food, gasoline, rubber, etc.)

Americans created Victory Gardens where they grew food on private & public land

- Used to reduce pressure on the public food supply