World War II Home Front Essay

Not only did a consumer need the money to make their purchase, they needed government approval in the form of ration stamps and cards. This severe restriction on the economic freedom of American citizens was tolerated due to the dire nature of the conflict. Another change in American society was less noticeable, but every bit as restrictive. Americans became the victims of a constant stream of propaganda ranging from posters covering the walls of public buildings to the newscasts and films shown in theaters. Again, for the sake of the nation, Americans again tolerated an intrusion into a sphere that had traditionally been independent of the government. Members of the Hollywood community participated in propaganda films, made speeches at bond rallies, and performed for the troops. The newspapers and radio media reported only what was approved by the government censors and the American people received a very one-sided view of the war. Finally, the American government went so far as to intern American citizens because of their race. More than 100,000 Japanese-Americans were sent to concentration camps in the barren wastelands. Cheated out of their property, these unfortunate Americans spent years behind barbed wire being guarded by military personnel.The war brought on many changes in American society, and while it did spur the people of the United States to make great and noble sacrifices in order to win the war, it also brought out the darker side of American culture.

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