Americans During War When the United States is struck by war,
all Americans are affected. The strength and bravery of the
armed forces inspire civilian “home front” efforts to be
successful. In times of crisis, Americans mobilize around a
common purpose, doing what needs to be done to bring the war to
a successful conclusion. Often, during war time, the United
States government makes changes that can titleer the lives of
civilians, even after the war has ended. Sometimes, it can even
result in the creation of new towns, such as Oak Ridge,
Tennessee. Prior to World War II, Oak Ridge did not officially
exist. It was first secretly created by the U.S. Army Corps of
Engineers in 1942 as a major research site for the Manhattan
Project, a wartime effort that resulted in the creation of the
first atomic weapons. Everyone has a role during war. While many
go off to fight in the military, those left behind take on new
roles. Before they began entering military service in larger
numbers, women kept communities running