Examine the impact of the Second World War on the civilian populations of two countries in Europe between 1939 and 1945.

Candidates will consider the impact of the Second World War on the civilian populations of two countries for the duration of the war. One area to consider may be increased government intervention in economic activity, which had an impact on the civilian population. Depending on the examples chosen, candidates may discuss the number of civilian casualties from invasion or bombing raids. A major impact of the war was rationing as there were severe food shortages. Further, there was a significant impact on standards of living and dislocation of the civilian population (either through evacuation or military activities). In addition, candidates may examine the mobilization of the workforce, increasing government control and the direction of labour into key industries, as well as the mobilization of women into the work force. In occupied countries, the civilian population may have experienced a more repressive regime.