civi: truman years Flashcards
What happened to the soldiers after World War II?
Soldiers returned home, with 12 million needing jobs and reintegration into civilian life.
What was the GI Bill, and what benefits did it provide?
The GI Bill (Servicemen’s Readjustment Act) offered education, vocational training, medical treatment, unemployment insurance, and loans for housing or starting a business.
How much money was allocated for the GI Bill, and who was it meant for?
$13 billion was allocated for veterans to support their transition to civilian life.
How many soldiers remained in the military by 1950?
By 1950, only 600,000 soldiers remained in the military.
What economic challenge arose from the federal government buying fewer military supplies after the war?
The reduction in military spending could have led to economic problems, but this was avoided due to strong consumer demand for home goods.
What helped revive the economy despite the decrease in military spending?
Pent-up demand led to $140 billion in consumer spending on items like cars and home appliances, which boosted the economy.
How much did Americans spend on consumer goods like cars and home appliances after the war?
Americans spent $140 billion on goods like cars, toasters, and other household items.
What economic problem arose due to workers demanding higher wages?
Inflation became an issue as workers demanded a 30% wage increase, leading to higher costs for goods.
Which industries experienced major strikes after World War II?
Strikes occurred in key industries, including cars, mining, oil, railroads, and steel.
What was the percentage increase in the cost of living in 1946, and what caused it?
The cost of living increased by 6% in 1946, driven by inflation from wage increases and higher consumer prices.
Who was elected in 1944, in what context?
As Truman died despite wanting to candidate again for a second manda, he highlighted his vice-prsident Harry Truman to be the president, and was elected in 1944.
What challenges did Truman faced upon starting as a president?
- Home: A: Transitioning 12 million soldiers back into civilian life and converting a wartime economy into a peacetime economy.
- aboard: Rebuilding a devastated Europe and addressing the spread of communism from the Soviet Union.
