Cooke, Tim. Home Fronts. Part of the World War II: The Full Story series. 2015. 48p. ISBN 978-1-78121-232-5. Available at 940.53 HOM on the library shelves. 11/1/16
The Second World War affected nearly everyone around the globe, from those who actively participated in the fighting to those who were left behind at home to support their countries. The home front refers to this category of people, and included children, women, and the elderly. In countries such as the United States and Britain, home front efforts trained people to man defenses and prepare for possible invasion. Black out procedures were introduced, material drives of every kind were instituted, and war bonds were purchased to finance the war effort.
In occupied countries, life was more difficult. Rationing, the loss of freedom, and attacks both by Allies and Axis forces often added to the recurring misery people felt. Most people tried to live their lives, but some joined resistance movements opposed to the occupier. As the war progressed and Germany and Japan were pushed back, more and more countries were freed from occupation.
Axis powers also had home fronts, and the inhabitants of these countries also suffered the devastating effects of the Second World War. As what was hoped to be a short war devolved into a years long conflict, the privations and suffering endured increased significantly. The bombing of German and Japanese cities, the destruction wrought by advancing armies and the psychological impact of impending defeat all contributed to a climate of fear and gloom.
Finally, the Holocaust is examined to see what impact it had on the home front of various occupied countries as well as on that of Germany.
Other books in this series include Life in the War, War in the Pacific 1941-1945, and North Africa and Europe 1940-1945.
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