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
The Cambridge Guide to the Arts in Britain each volume more suitable for sale on its own. A hardback edition of the cultural history was also produced by CUP and sold through The Folio Society. Vol. 1. "Prehistoric, Roman and Early Medieval" ("Early Britain") Vol. 2. "The Middle Ages" ("Medieval Britain") Vol. 3. "Renaissance & Reformation" ("16th Century Britain") Vol. 4. "The Seventeenth Century" ("17th Century Britain") Vol. 5. "The Augustan Age" ("18th Century Britain") Vol. 6. "Romantics to Early Victorians" ("The Romantic Age in Britain") Vol. 7. "The Later Victorian Age" ("Victorian Britain") Vol. 8. "The Edwardian Age and the Inter-War Years" ("Early 20th Century Britain") Vol.