Friday, July 15, 2016

How did the US government encourage mobilization for war on the home front?

Based on your question, I am assuming you are referring to World War I and World War II. There were several things the government did to encourage mobilization for each war within the United States. In World War I and in World War II some of the encouraging was through actions of Congress. The Selective Service Act allowed for the drafting of troops to fight in World War I. In World War II, the law was called the Selective Training and Service Act. With these laws, troops were drafted to prepare to fight in both world wars.


Besides drafting soldiers, other actions were taken. In World War I, the Committee on Public Information was created to shape public opinion in favor of the war. Through posters, speeches, and pamphlets, Americans were encouraged to support the war effort. In World War II, similar actions were taken. Posters saying “Loose Lips Sink Ships” were used to remind Americans to be careful about speaking publically about the war and about what we were doing. In both wars, Americans were encouraged by the government to grow their own crops by planting victory gardens. This would help provide more food for the soldiers. The government also encouraged Americans to support the war financially by buying war bonds. In World War I, the government borrowed over $20 billion while in World War II it was over $150 billion. Americans willingly reduced their consumption of some kinds of food during both wars. Additionally, many people went to work in the industries making war materials. They had to replace the soldiers who were drafted. Americans who didn’t go and fight in the war also made many sacrifices for the war.

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