Germany invaded Poland in 1939, and the world  almost every country except the U.S.  was at war. Agricultural exports dropped as German submarines, known as U-boats, were sinking U.S. ships to England and Europe.Farming exports fell 30 to 40 percent below the average of the ten depression years that preceded the war.hen the U.S. officially entered the war, the need for food increased even more. Soldiers could fight only as long as they had food to fuel their bodies. So, farmers were exhorted to produce even more.
After 63 years of marriage, Almanzo died in 1949, Laura continued to live at Rocky Ridge Farm until her passing in 1957, at the age of 90. In 1954, Garth Williams designed the bronze Laura Ingalls Wilder Medal for presentation to Laura as the first recipient.
Melissa Gilbert as Laura Elizabeth Ingalls Wilder in Little House on the Prairie. (Getty) Melissa Gilbert starred as one of the most beloved characters in television history, but she has zero plans to take on the role again anytime soon. The 53-year-old captivated audiences across the country as Laura Ingalls Wilder on NBCâs âLittle House on the Prairie,â which aired from 1974-1983. MELISSA GILBERT DROPS OUT OF CONGRESSIONAL RACE