During World War II, the U.S. government issued war bonds to aid the war efforts. Known initially as Defense Bonds, their name was changed to War Bonds after the attack on Pearl Harbor by the Japanese on December 7, 1941. As debt securities used to finance military operations during wartime, the bonds yielded a mere 2.9 per cent return after a 10-year maturity. War bonds were sold to 134 million Americans despite the hardships during the war. Treasury Secretary Henry Morgenthau sold the first Series ‘E’ U.S. Savings Bond to President Franklin D. Roosevelt. A variety of denominations were available, of $25 up to $10,000, but some restrictions applied.
The War Finance Committee supervised all bond sales, and the War Advertising Council encouraged voluntary bond purchases. These two organizations have produced the most advertising in U.S. history. The public was continually urged to buy bonds in the name of defending American freedom and democracy and as safe havens for investment. Advertisements made an emotional appeal to citizens. Bonds offered a lower rate of return than markets, but it was a way to participate in the war effort morally and financially. The advertisements were the first broadcast on radio and in newspapers, then added to magazines to reach the masses. Both the government and private companies created advertisements for the bond campaign, a unique feature.
Below are some historical photos that show how the Nashville people supported the war efforts by buying war bonds.
At the Vultee plant, my granny riveted seats into bombers as Rosie the Riveter. The work she did there made her regret her fam’s Quaker legacy.
What if the government asked people today to loan them money? The outrage would be unimaginable.
In her old age, my grandmother talked about her older brothers fighting in World War II. There was probably a theater downtown that played either clips of the war or news about it, and her father would go downtown (from east nash) to take in the action.
To be honest, her “memories” had been slipping lately, so I’m not sure. When I googled it, it said the first theater opened in Nash in the early 50’s, if anyone else has similar stories, I’d love to hear them.
Even if your grandmother was a bit off, she may have been right about the Belcourt or Church Street movie palace opening in 1925.
I appreciate your input, thanks for sharing that information 🧡