History of the United States (1918–1945) (especially poor people) and prevent inflation. Tires were the first item to be rationed in January 1942 because supplies of natural rubber were interrupted. Gasoline rationing proved an even better way to allocate scarce rubber. By 1943 one needed government issued ration coupons to purchase typewriters, sugar, gasoline, bicycles, footwear, fuel oil, silk, nylon, coffee, stoves, shoes, meat, cheese, butter, margarine, canned foods, dried fruits, jam, and many other items. Some items—like new automobiles and appliances—were no longer made. The rationing system did not apply to used goods (like clothes or cars). The ration system was complex and confusing, but
What to Expect When No One's Expecting What to Expect When No One's Expecting What to Expect When No One's Expecting: America's Coming Demographic Disaster is a book by the "Weekly Standard" columnist Jonathan V. Last about declining birthrates in the United States and elsewhere around the world and the implications for demographics and the functioning of society and the economy (hardcover release February 2013, paperback release June 2014). Last wrote an article in the "Wall Street Journal" summarizing the key themes of his book. Last was interviewed by Kathryn Jean Lopez for "National Review". He was also appeared to discuss the book on John Stossel's show