Changing living standards Flashcards
What were unemployment rates in London during the depression compared to Wales?
11% and 40%
What benefits did middle class families begin to see during the 1930s?
More homes were electrified, this meant that more people bought things such as washing machines, electric cookers and vacuum cleaners. Also led to the beginnings of youth culture with the youth having a greater disposable income.
What were the unemployment rates of people in electronics compared to those in ship building in the 1930s?
12% compared to 70%
What jobs were secure for women in the 30s?
Teaching or nursing, this was to the envy of many men.
What happened to owner occupation from 1914 to 1938?
Rose from 10% in 1914 to 32% in 1938
Why did women eat the least during the depression era?
They were feeding their children and the men were eating as they were earning money.
What changes to food took place during the 1920s and 30s?
Food got cheaper and more fresh food became available. During the depression years it was a struggle though and many meals consistent of basic ingredients and a lack of meat.
Why were there high rates of disease during the depression years?
There were poor living conditions as well as poor diets meaning people got diseases such as rickets.
How many council houses were built and how expensive was housing during the interwar years?
1.1 million, decent houses could be purchased for £450 pounds in London.
What things other than food were rationed?
Essentials eg soap, clothes, paper, fuel, kitchen utensils.
What were the two main solutions to housing problems in the 40s?
Prefabricated housing which was quick to build low quality housing. Blocks of flats which were seen as a good alternative to old slum houses.
What did the New Towns act do?
Created 14 new towns, these were mainly for the working class and many people were happy with them.
Why was it hard to raise the standard of living in the immediate post-war period?
This was due to many foreign commitments in Greece and Malaya and a high % of the budget was spent on defence.
What were the positive effects of rationing?
People got healthier, infant mortality dropped.
What were the reasons for the growth of a consumer society?
The welfare state, low energy prices, strong trade unions, growth of consumer credit, higher wages, more advertising, global economic boom, more access to electricity.
