The Importance of Farming During WW2
World War II was a global war that lasted from 1939 to 1945. During this time, food production was crucial to the war effort. Many countries faced severe food shortages due to the war, and farmers played a critical role in producing enough food to feed their countries’ populations. The importance of farming during WW2 cannot be overstated.
The Effects of the War on Farming
During WW2, farming faced a significant challenge due to the loss of young men to the war effort. Many young farmers were called up to serve in the army, leaving a significant gap in the agricultural workforce. The war also disrupted trade routes, making it difficult for farmers to get the supplies they needed. Moreover, the war caused damage to farmland, reducing the amount of arable land available for farming.
The Government’s Response
To address the shortage of agricultural workers, the British government introduced the Women’s Land Army in 1939. This organization recruited women to work on farms and help with the war effort. The government also introduced the Essential Work Order in 1940, which meant that some workers in vital industries, including farming, were exempt from military service.
Reserved Occupations
A reserved occupation was a job that was considered essential to the war effort, and workers in these jobs were exempt from military service. The list of reserved occupations included jobs in industries such as farming, mining, and engineering. The government introduced this policy to ensure that there were enough workers in essential industries to keep the war effort going.
Conclusion
In conclusion, farming was a reserved occupation in WW2, meaning that farmers were exempt from military service. This policy was necessary to ensure that there were enough workers in essential industries to keep the war effort going. Despite facing significant challenges, including a shortage of workers and damage to farmland, farmers played a critical role in producing enough food to feed their countries’ populations, and their contribution to the war effort should not be underestimated.