1940s Youth

Background:

• Britain were caught up in the Second World War, facing bombings across the UK
• Before the 1944 Education Act when teenagers went to work early instead of going to school
• Families could afford to live on only one salary
• Teenagers would go from being children to going to work (when they were early teens)
• They began to bring in an income like their parents
• Couples typically stayed together

Island People (1941):

• Teenagers are seen working in a range of different jobs including farming, silk weaving and working in markets
• Teenagers enjoyed the summer pastimes of swimming, football, bowls and cricket
• Seen to be an active member during the family time on weekends
• Dinner time was the centre of family life on the weekends
• Children were taught generosity, consideration for others and to appreciate family life