World War II: The Home Front

World War II lasted from 1939 to 1945. While soldiers fought overseas, life at home changed dramatically.

The Outbreak of War

3rd September 1939: Britain declared war on Germany. Germany, led by Adolf Hitler, had invaded Poland.

Evacuation

Over 3 million people were evacuated from cities to the countryside. Most evacuees were children. They travelled by train with name tags and gas masks.

Rationing

Because of German U-boats sinking supply ships, food was scarce. Rationing meant everyone got a fair share. Butter: 2oz per week, Meat: 1s 2d worth, Sugar: 8oz per week.

'Dig for Victory' encouraged people to grow their own food. 'Make Do and Mend' encouraged repairing clothes.

The Blitz

The Blitz (from German Blitzkrieg) was the bombing of British cities, especially London. It lasted from September 1940 to May 1941. Over 40,000 civilians were killed. People sheltered in Anderson shelters or underground stations.

Women at War

Women worked in factories, joined the Women's Land Army, served in the WAAF, WRNS, and ATS, and worked as codebreakers at Bletchley Park.

Key Events

• 1939: War begins
• 1940: Battle of Britain, the Blitz
• 1941: USA joins the war
• 1944: D-Day landings
• 1945: Germany surrenders (May), Japan surrenders (August)