WWI contributed to a shortage of supplies, causing rationing booklets to be be distributed to families. The rations booklet contained stamps, which could be redeemed for things like sugar, etc. Because husbands were fighting on foreign soil, the women had to join the workplace, often working in factories where the men used to work. Rosie, the riveter, became the symbol of the hardworking effort of women. Families learned to get by with less while supporting troops across the ocean.