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Nikki Tundel
St. Paul, Minn.

War effort -- or lack of effort?

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Let's All Fight
During World War II, posters asked Americans to do what they could to assist in the war effort. Over 85 million Americans invested in war bonds, helping to finance the U.S. military.
U.S. Government Printing Office

The U.S. government spent $8.5 billion dollars on the war in Iraq. And that was just during the month of July. Still, most Americans didn't feel much of a pinch.

Compared to previous wars, the current military conflict has little impact on the daily lives of United States citizens.

Hitler rides shotgun
Government advertising campaigns encouraged Americans to conserve gas by carpooling. It was said that if you traveled alone, you were aiding the enemy.
U.S. Government Printing Office

During World War II, Americans faced food shortages. They were allowed only enough gas to get them to and from work. And they were expected to turn in everything from tin cans to old tires to kitchen fat to help the war effort. Shoes were rationed, the production of new cars was stopped and the margins of books were narrowed to help conserve paper.

Reporter Nikki Tundel talks with DJ Mary Lucia about the ways Americans were affected by war in the past and what the term sacrifice means to people today.

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Money for the military
During World War II, posters asked Americans to do what they could to assist in the war effort. Over 85 million Americans invested in war bonds, helping to finance the U.S. military.
U.S. Government Printing Office