Life After War Flashcards
When was VE day celebrated and what did it stand for?
On the 8th May 1945 (Victory in Europe)
What was Britain’s national debt at the end of WW2?
3500 million pounds
What was the fall in Britain’s gold reserves in 1945?
From 864 million pounds to 3 million
What proportion of Britain’s housing stock was destroyed in WW2, and what percentage of factories and shops?
A third of housing and 50% of factories and shops
How many military deaths were there in the second world war?
264,000
Why did rationing remain in place after the war?
Because Britain couldn’t afford to buy food from abroad
What was the basic rate of income tax after the war?
50%
What were the effects of the war on Wales?
It reminded Welsh people that they had their own distinct culture, with workers and troops moving to it during the bombing of other parts of the UK reminding it of its importance.
Who designed the demobilisation plan and when?
Ernist Bevin did in September 1944
What was the system of demobilisation?
Servicemen would be released based on their age and service number, which was indicative of how long they had served for
How many women and men were released from service in the 18 months after June 18 1945?
4.3 million
What challenges did those who served return to?
Food was still rationed, homes and work places had been damaged, and husbands and wives had to learn to live with each other again.
What was the name of the second blitz undertaken by the Germans starting in 1943?
Operation Steinblock
What were the flaws to Operation Steinblock?
Poor training and navigation, a shortage of aircraft, and effective anti aircraft defences.
What was the British nickname for operation Steinblock?
The babyblitz
You don’t need to memorise this but please appreciate it
