Arkansas Turning Point

World War II was a major turning point for Arkansas. The effects of World War II ultimately changed the way of life for this small southern state. Many aspects of the war created substantial dynamic shifts in the household and everyday life. Women and children were thrown into the workforce due to the absence of male figures in the house and the money spent on war industries and military bases resulted in prosperity. (363)
Arkansas is and has been a considerable poor state, nevertheless during WWII the state ranked 12th among all the states who raised money for the war. The war, like any other, is chaotic and leads to mass destruction. Arkansas fought and fought as much as they possibly could, including those at home. Like previously stated, women and children began entering the work force in order to hold up a house dynamic. Money was continuously raised for Red Cross as well as the collection of scrap metal and rubber for war efforts. In a time of harsh conditions, the Natural State was able to help from home.

Teachers began to leave jobs for other opportunities leading to the delay of school openings. (367) Due to the undereducated population and poor state it was hard for Arkansas to attract war industries. Only six military ordnance plants were located in the southern state. Although the lack of industries, Arkansas was a sensible location for military training camps due to the lack of harsh weather conditions, which created positive reinforcement to the economy. (368) During the war period there were controversial facilities, Japanese internment camps. These camps housed Japanese American families that were removed of the West coast.