Until it's Over, Over There: The U.S. Economy in World War I

44 Pages Posted: 6 Jul 2004 Last revised: 30 Nov 2022

See all articles by Hugh Rockoff

Hugh Rockoff

Newark College of Arts & Sciences - Department of Economics; National Bureau of Economic Research (NBER)

Date Written: June 2004

Abstract

The process by which the US economy was mobilized during World War I was the subject of considerable criticism both at the time and since. Nevertheless, when viewed in the aggregate the degree of mobilization achieved during the short period of active US involvement was remarkable. The United States entered the war in 1917 having made only limited preparations. In 1918 the armed forces were expanded to include 2.9 million sailors, soldiers, and marines; 6 percent of the labor force in the 15 to 44 age bracket. Overall in 1918, one fifth or more of the nation's resources was devoted to the war effort. By the time the Armistice was signed in 1919 a profusion of new weapons was flowing from American factories. This essay describes how mobilization was achieved so quickly, including how it was financed, and some of the long-term consequences.

Suggested Citation

Rockoff, Hugh T., Until it's Over, Over There: The U.S. Economy in World War I (June 2004). NBER Working Paper No. w10580, Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=559230

Hugh T. Rockoff (Contact Author)

Newark College of Arts & Sciences - Department of Economics ( email )

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