The Home Front: Allied and Axis Life During World War II

Darman, Peter, ed. The Home Front: Allied and Axis Life During World War II. 2013. 64p. ISBN 978-1-4488-9236-5. 940.53 HOM on the library shelves

During the Second World War the lives of millions of people changed dramatically. Soldiers fought at the front, while massive military forces encountered each other throughout the world. Those that were left behind at home, however, also suffered the impact of the war.

The United States was least affected physically from the war, with no damage done to the mainland. Rationing was implemented, however, and women entered the industrial workforce in droves as men left to fight. Life on the homefront for Britain and Russia was difficult as both countries suffered extensive damages, but Britain was never occupied. Countries conquered by the Germans were severely affected as the Nazis extracted resources and people from them while executing large numbers of people.

The Axis countries’ populations suffered greatly as well, especially as the war turned and entered the countries themselves. Large bombing campaigns, land invasion, and the ultimate drop of two atomic devices affected Germany, Italy and Japan.

A fascinating read, this book provides an introduction to life at home for those who were left behind, or for those for whom war brought misery.