Summary Of William O Neil's Essay The People Are Willing

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William O'Neil's essay "The People Are Willing" illustrates the sacrifices made by American citizens in an effort to win the Second World War. In addition, O'Neil outlines how these sacrifices forced Americans to reexamine the efficacy of certain long held American traditions and institutions. The realities of wartime rationing had challenged the American Dream as citizens found it increasingly difficult to secure their basic necessities. Beyond conscription, the American government was learning to master the neglected resource of civilian wartime aid and the emergence of the cultural icon, Rosie the Riveter, indicated a significant transformation of traditional gender roles.

Despite the social and economic hardships of The Great Depression …show more content…

Citizens, especially those who could not enlisted in the Military for medical or other reasons, took immense pride and care in providing for the physical and social welfare of servicemen and women overseas and at home. While Americans were anxious to give of their time and resources the American government had not instituted effective channels to reap the benefits of civilian wartime aid. Some members of the American legislative body completely ignored this human resource. Beyond making donations, purchasing war bonds and stamps and practicing conservation little was expected of the average citizen. The local media and Hollywood constantly encouraged the public of their financial duties, bombarding them with such slogans as “we are in this together”. The American government had become efficient in extracting monetary support from the nation however, they neglected to tap into the workforce that was ready and willing to be employed for wartime …show more content…

Organizations such as a Newfoundland Patriotic Association (NPA), and The Red Cross stepped up to relieve wartime tensions. The NPA was comprised of Veterans from the First World War, prominent citizens and politicians. The group’s mission was to create social services that promoted recruitment for military service and supported dependents of soldiers serving overseas. In addition, they ensured that service member returning from their duties had pensions, and work programs. The Red Cross’ mission was to care for the survivors of military combat. They donated medical supplies to local hospital, provided in home care for seriously injured veteran, offer first aid classes, and conducted blood

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