Impact of World War II on the U.S. Economy and Workforce | World War II Stories

The U.S. Economy Before WWII00:00:00

In 1941, the United States was still recovering from the Great Depression, with a high jobless rate of 25%, widespread bankruptcy, and a standard of living 60% lower than pre-1929 levels.

WWII's Impact on Employment and Production00:00:19

The onset of World War II drastically changed the economic landscape. More people were needed to produce food and weapons for the war effort, leading to new jobs for many who had been unemployed. Companies shifted from consumer goods to war materials, and new plants were built specifically for war production.

Women Enter the Workforce00:00:32

As men were sent to fight, women were increasingly hired to take over positions on assembly lines, jobs traditionally deemed 'men's work.' This marked a significant shift from the pre-war era, where women were generally discouraged from working outside the home.

The Des Moines Ordinance Plant: A Case Study00:01:02

The video highlights the Des Moines Ordinance Plant in Ankeny, which began construction before the war and by 1942 was producing .30 and .50 caliber machine gun ammunition. Jeanne Ersland, then Jeanne Gibson, was one of the 19,000 people employed at the facility, reflecting on the immediate start to work and the developing sense of patriotism.