The American Vision: Modern Times © 2008

"The GI Bill"

Introduction
Since the Revolutionary War, when American soldiers returned home, the federal government rewarded them for their service. For soldiers returning from World War II, the reward came in the form of the GI Bill of Rights. This one piece of legislation had long-lasting effects that reached far beyond any politician's expectations. Many historians believe that our modern society is a product of the changes that occurred after 8 million soldiers took advantage of the GI Bill's opportunities. Explore web sites on this topic and consider the GI Bill's impact on education, suburban growth, small business, and the middle class.

Sample web sites:
PBS -- http://www.pbs.org/newshour/bb/military/july-dec00/gibill_7-4.html
Dept. of Veterans Affairs -- http://www.gibill.va.gov/GI_Bill_Info/history.htm
Ohio Historical Society -- http://www.ohiohistorycentral.org/entry.php?rec=1396

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After you have read through the information, answer the following questions.

1			What were the key benefits of the GI Bill?
2			What impact did the GI Bill have on colleges and universities?
3			What effect did the GI Bill have on the growth of suburbs?
4			What were the social effects of the GI Bill?
5			Veterans of the Korean and Vietnam Wars received a scaled-back version of the original GI Bill, and today's recruits receive education and job training benefits as an incentive to join the military. On a separate sheet of paper, write a comparison of the postwar society and today's society. What has changed since the GI Bill went into effect? Why did the GI Bill make such an impact on World War II veterans' lifestyles? Would such a law make as great an impact today? What conditions would motivate the federal government to initiate such a bill? Conclusion The GI Bill assisted millions of Americans after World War II. The bill called for a wide range of support for returning veterans and had far-reaching effects. Do you think the GI Bill was a good investment for the U.S. government? What are the benefits and downsides of this kind of social program?