A Map Satirizing Rationing During World War II

"Guide to America - A Comprehensive and Revised Map - Amended",

This humorous map of the United States was created by John Held Jr. for Woman's Day Magazine and satirizes the rationing system and the shortages experienced during World War II. Beginning in May 1942, many types of food and goods were rationed. Blue point and red point stamps were issued to families to enable them to purchase processed foods (with blue points) and meat, fish and dairy products (with red points). As the war continued an increasing number of items were rationed; some items, such as fresh fruits and vegetables, were not rationed, however prices increased and availability decreased, making them difficult to acquire. Quality also suffered, as manufacturers attempted to make products with fewer resources and at lower cost.

This illustration shows the challenges Americans experienced due to rationing and shortages. People are lining up for cigarettes and goods at the hardware store, while others are discovering that their steak is "grade Z beef" and their raincoat is "not rainproof." A menu is shown with all items crossed out except for vegetable cutlet, and a mermaid is depicted in northern Canada inviting people to dinner but requesting that they "bring red points." There are also several references to alcohol, such as a gentleman in California carrying a wine cask and stating,"I don't drink, but I got a barrel of it, just in case!" and alcohol making its way to the United States from Mexico and Venezuela.

John Held Jr. (1889-1958) was an American cartoonist who is best known for his 1920's portrayals of dancing (including the Charleston), driving, playing sports, and other popular activities of the era.

References: PJ Mode Collection #2175; Rumsey #11257.

Condition: B+

Light toning along the edges of the sheet with two short tears at right that have been closed with archival materials on verso.