Figure 1.-- For the most part the GI's and the British people got on well. The GIs were a special hit with the kids. British children had seen Hollywood films and thought of both gangsters and cowboys and Indians. Almost all of the children met their first real American during the War. Most were enchanted by the optimistic, informal, gum chewing GIs and their Yankee slang. The children sought out the GIs, especially when they learned about the inevitable exchange of gum and Hershey bars. This was a real attraction in War-time Britain where sugar ans sweets was tightly rationed. Here we see some British boys with their American friend in 1943 when the build for D-Day was beginning in earnest.

For the most part the GI's and the British people got on well--swell as the GIs might say. The GIs were a special hit with the kids. British children had seen Hollywood films and thought of both gangsters and cowboys and Indians in connection with America. Almost all of the children met their first real American during the War. Most were enchanted by the optimistic, informal, gum chewing GIs and their Yankee slang. The children sought out the GIs, especially when they learned about the inevitable exchange of gum and Hershey bars. The British managed to maintain caloric intake during the War, but the diet with little meat, fats, and sugar was very dull. Thus the attraction of sweets was a real draw. The GIs would show up at schools and children's centers to cheer up children, especially the children separated from their parents. The young women were also impressed and because most local young men were away in the services. The fun-seeking Americans eager to dance and make lady friends found many young women also inteested in having a good time. The friendships formed would lead to many GI marriages. British families invited the GIs into their homes. Some were billited with families. The GIs for their part weren't impressed with the food and weather, but liked the British people. A lot of Americans had anti-British attitudes before the War. After the War, the only major American group with anti-British attitudes were Irish-Americans.

Created: 3:28 AM 3/24/2013
Last updated: 3:28 AM 3/24/2013