Shifts during wartime

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
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