Texas during WWII

Texas during WWII

By Michelle Garcia

Military In Texas

Once war was declared, the United States quickly began to mobilize. For Texas, that meant the construction of military bases and men joining to fight. Around 200,000 Texas men enlisted during the war, and about 500 women volunteered as nurses. Four major military training bases were established: Camp Bowie in Fort Worth, Camp Travis in San Antonio, Camp Logan in Houston, and Camp MacArthur in Waco. This was also the first war to significantly use airplanes, and Kelly Field in San Antonio trained all the pilots.

​Military bases were built in Texas due to the state's moderate climate and large amount of land, which made it an ideal location for training and operations. In addition, Texas industries increased due to the international conflict in World War II, as the demand for war supplies and support services led to significant economic growth across the state.

Multiple Choice

Why was Texas chosen as a location for military training bases during the war?

• Texas had a surplus of military equipment.
• Texas was the closest state to the enemy.
• Texas was known for its cold, snow climate.

• Its mild climate and open land

Back on the Homefront

During World War II, Texas played a major

role in supporting the U.S. war effort by

providing natural resources (cotton, food,

oil, etc.). Texas industries grew rapidly, due to international conflict, producing aircraft, ships, ammunition, and petroleum. Petroleum plants expanded to meet the demand for fuel, and agriculture ramped up to supply more food.

Texans who weren’t fighting overseas

helped from home. Women joined the

workforce, families rationed food, and

people bought war bonds and donated to

the Red Cross and Salvation Army. Anti-

German feelings also spread—some towns

banned the German language, and German

foods were renamed to sound more

patriotic.

Multiple Choice

What is the effect of the international conflict during World War II?

• It increased industrial production (military bases, aircraft, petroleum plants) to support the war effort.

• Texas had no significant changes in population or economy during the war.
• Texas experienced a decline in agriculture and industry during World War II.
• The state became isolated from military activities and trade.

Multiple Choice

How did Texas industries contribute to the U.S. war effort during World War II?

• Texas industries contributed by producing military equipment, aircraft, ships, fuel, munitions, and food.
• Texas industries focused on agricultural exports only.
• Texas did not participate in the war effort at all.
• Texas industries primarily manufactured consumer goods.

Multiple Choice

What economic benefits did Texas experience as a result of U.S. involvement in World War II?

• Texas faced economic decline due to military spending cuts.
• Texas experienced a decrease in job opportunities during the war.
• Texas saw a reduction in local business activity due to wartime restrictions.
• Texas's natural resources were in high demand to support the war effort.