The beginning of World War II came as Americans were just coming out of one of the bleakest periods in our history – the Great Depression. During this time, resourcefulness could literally save your life.

As the War started, Americans once again found themselves giving up their luxuries – and even some necessities – so that the war effort could be successful. The magnitude of their efforts has yet to be matched, even by the magnitude of the modern day apathy for the plight of others.

So, with this in mind, I thought I’d take a brief look back at bleak time in American history, see what we’ve learned, and if there are things that we could do better!

Recycling:
I think that it’s safe to say that our efforts for recycling come close to matching those during the war effort. Today, many of us recycle because we see that our resources are not infinite, or because we see that our landfills are filling. Or maybe it’s just because the city brought you a recycling bin and you figure you should use it or your neighbors will talk. Whatever the reasons, today the trash gets separated from the recyclables, and, in some cases, even the compostable items are put to good use.

During World War II, the recycling efforts were part of “doing your duty” to support the war effort. Just about everything was in great demand, and people on the Home Front would hold drives to collect as much as they could to help their loved ones who were fighting overseas. Silk, nylon stockings, old rags, and scraps of fabric were used for things like parachutes and clothing. Tires, rain coats, garden hoses, even old phonograph records could be used for rubber components on vehicles, or tread belts for tanks. Paper and glass were also collected and recycled. But, by far, the item most necessary to the war effort, and most recycled, were the metals – tin, aluminum and steel – used to build tanks, ships, guns and ammunition.

Rationing:
Well, I’d say the Americans of the past have us beat on this one. Even with gas prices at budget-breaking levels, and the cost of daily necessities going through the roof, we just can’t seem to stop buying more stuff! I’m not advocating the return of “Red Stamp” rationing, and I’m glad that our food supplies seem to be more stable now than they were, but wise spending might be something we should think about for the future?

Other things of note:
Women were finally able to work outside of the home without stigma – Go us!

Volunteering was through the roof – Yea! Woohoo!

The Double V campaign fought for victory over fascism abroad and over discrimination at home – We’re still working on this one...

Interested in learning more? Check out these great links!
Revisiting the Victory Garden

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