Soldiers in World War II primarily chewed chewing gum and various forms of tobacco to cope with the stresses of combat and daily military life. These items provided both psychological comfort and practical benefits during arduous campaigns.
The Ubiquitous Chewing Gum
Chewing gum was a staple for American troops during World War II, often included in their daily rations. Far from being just a confection, it served a vital role in troop welfare. Although neither a food nor a medicine, chewing gum was administered to American troops as a drug substitute during the two world wars of the 20th century. Its consistent availability helped soldiers manage stress and maintain focus in demanding environments.
The benefits of chewing gum for soldiers included:
- Stress Relief: The act of chewing provided a repetitive, calming motion, helping to alleviate tension and anxiety in high-stress situations.
- Focus and Alertness: It helped soldiers stay awake and alert during long patrols or guard duties, and could improve concentration.
- Oral Hygiene: While not a substitute for brushing, it helped stimulate saliva production, which could offer a temporary sense of cleanliness in conditions where proper hygiene was challenging.
- Thirst Quencher: It could temporarily alleviate the sensation of thirst, a critical factor when water was scarce.
- Morale Booster: A small, familiar comfort from home, chewing gum offered a brief escape and a psychological lift.
Its significance was such that it became an iconic part of the American soldier's image. For more on the history of gum's military role, see the National Archives' "The Gum That Won the War?" article.
Tobacco Products
Beyond chewing gum, tobacco products were also extensively chewed by soldiers across various armies. While cigarettes were widely smoked, chewing tobacco was also common, particularly in situations where smoking was impractical or dangerous (e.g., in foxholes or during night operations where a lit cigarette could reveal a position).
Reasons soldiers chewed tobacco included:
- Addiction: Many soldiers were already regular users of tobacco.
- Stress Management: Like gum, it provided a coping mechanism for stress and boredom.
- Camaraderie: Sharing tobacco was a common social ritual among troops.
- Accessibility: Tobacco was often readily available through rations or informal trade.
Other Items
While less common than gum or tobacco, soldiers might also chew on other items depending on their availability and personal habits. These could include:
- Hard candy: Long-lasting candies provided a sugar boost and a pleasant taste.
- Medicinal lozenges: For minor ailments like sore throats, though less about general chewing.
- Ration components: In some instances, parts of their dry rations might be chewed on for sustenance or to pass the time.
A Quick Look at What Soldiers Chewed
| Item | Primary Purpose | Psychological Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Chewing Gum | Stress relief, alertness, temporary oral hygiene, thirst relief | Comfort, distraction, focus, morale boost |
| Tobacco | Addiction, stress management, social ritual | Nerves calming, boredom alleviation |
| Hard Candy | Sugar boost, prolonged taste | Mild comfort, temporary energy |
