DailyTimeCapsule brief
August 29, 1940
On August 29, 1940, the United States government made a strategic decision to purchase a site for an arms manufacturing plant near Akron, Ohio. This decision came at a time when World War II was escalating, and the U.S. was beginning to ramp up its military production capabilities to support its allies. Concurrently, in a significant political move, 100 individuals identified as Communists were ousted from the Works Progress Administration (WPA) in Washington D.C., under the direction of Colonel Somervell. The action underscored the growing concerns about subversive elements within the government as investigations continued, raising the total number of ousted employees to 208. Additionally, the day marked the passing of Alice Seligsberg, the former National President of Hadassah, who was known for her extensive welfare work and leadership in humanitarian efforts in Palestine during the 1920s.
Key developments
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On August 29, 1940, the U.S. government purchased a site for an arms factory to be operated by the Atlas Powder Company. This move was part of the country's efforts to ramp up military production prior to entering World War II. The factory aimed to enhance national defense capabilities by increasing the supply of munitions.
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On August 29, 1940, Col. Somervell announced the suspension of 100 individuals registered as Communists from the Works Progress Administration (WPA), with a total of 208 dismissals to date. This action aligns with ongoing investigations aimed at removing subversive elements from government positions. The names of those suspended were forwarded to Washington, D.C., as part of continued efforts to maintain loyalty within the administration.
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Alice Seligsberg, former National President of Hadassah, passed away on August 29, 1940. She was a dedicated welfare worker who led a medical unit to Palestine and played a pivotal role in establishing the organization's Junior Group. Seligsberg also served as the Executive Director of the Orphan Committee in the Near East and was instrumental in founding the Children's Bureau.
