Why Is WWII Important To Oregon's History?

It is easy to see the struggles and difficulties when looking back through history, especially during a time of war. However, this week’s lecture does a great job of expressing some of the positive outlooks WWII brought to Oregon without dismissing the difficulties individuals and communities faced. Due to the high labor demand there was an increased availability in employed civilians, improved wages, a larger amount of employment for African Americans. Kaiser began building enormous amounts of ships reshaping the times. With the increased need of citizens to help mass produce, the unfair policies began to turn and slowly improve. However not all of the changes brought on by WWII were good ones. Oregon has an extensive past such as the Bracero Program and Oregon’s lack of willingness to help provide jobs for immigrants.
Not only is learning of Oregon’s history important, it provides a solid foundation for a deeper understanding of what takes place in today’s