The Making Of Modern Britain #11: Experiences Of WW2 Flashcards
What sort of government did Churchill create during WW2?
A coalition government with all the main political parties
What did this coalition government enable?
- Several members of the Labour Party were given important jobs as ministers, allowing them to implement their policies
- Clement Attlee became deputy PM
Why were the middle class shocked at evacuees?
They resided in the country where most were well off, and the state of the children shocked them
What did the Perthshire Advertiser say about evacuees? (20 Sept 1939)
“From practically all districts complaints have been received concerning the verminous and filthy condition of the children”
What was the worst city affected by bombing in Scotland?
Aberdeen, with 34 attacks
What is a ‘tip-and-run’ attack?
Bombers who had missed their targets dropped bombs before returning home as this would take up less fuel
How did bombing bring all classes together?
Damage was equally dealt to rich and poor civilian areas and they sheltered together, providing a sense of community
How much of Britain’s food was imported during peacetime?
60%
Why could Britain no longer rely on their food imports?
- Nazi Germany occupation of Europe
- U-Boats bombing British merchant ships
When did the government introduce rationing?
1940
When did the government introduce clothes rationing?
1941
Why did the government introduce food and clothes rationing in 1940?
To ensure ‘fair shares for all’
What were coupons used for in rationing?
To buy goods in short supply
What was Churchill’s famous quote about rationing?
He said it was ‘a fine meal’
Impact of rationing
People eating more than usual, and healthier than usual
