1. The World War II effects were varied. Military cost increased. But at the same time, expenditures on military created job opportunities and expanded industrial capacities. The war actually ended depression. “In 1944, at the war’s height, only 1.2 percent of the labor force was jobless.” (P250) The federal government was able to regulate and partially control economic activities.
2. Interstate system was created. Federal aid projects on construction of highways. “The Interstate Highway Act of 1956 and creation of the Federal Highway Trust Fund strengthened these patterns.” (P254)
3. Economic changes and job opportunities increased urban population. Whites from the South plus large population of African Americans and Mexicans moved to the industrial cities of the North and West.
4. Jobs for female increased and work performances were recognized. Women’s employment status altered.
5. Growing economy and extra spendable cash which shifted entertainment industries. “Movie theaters were packed, attracting weekly audiences of 85 million by 1945.” (P251)
| Year | Total labor force (*1000) | Armed forces (*1000) | Unemployed (*1000) | Unemployment rate (%) |
| 1939 | 55,588 | 370 | 9,480 | 17.2 |
| 1940 | 56,180 | 540 | 8,120 | 14.6 |
| 1941 | 57,530 | 1,620 | 5,560 | 9.9 |
| 1942 | 60,380 | 3,970 | 2,660 | 4.7 |
| 1943 | 64,560 | 9,020 | 1,070 | 1.9 |
| 1944 | 66,040 | 11,410 | 670 | 1.2 |
| 1945 | 65,290 | 11,430 | 1,040 | 1.9 |
| 1946 | 60,970 | 3,450 | 2,270 | 3.9 |