What was the main focus of the Office of Price Administration during the war?

The Office of Price Administration (OPA) played a critical role during World War II, primarily focused on controlling inflation and overseeing rationing. As the United States mobilized for war, the government was concerned about the potential for rapid inflation due to increased demand for consumer goods and the limited supply available, given that many industries shifted to wartime production.

To manage these economic pressures, the OPA implemented measures to stabilize prices and prevent price gouging. This included setting ceilings on prices for various goods and services to ensure that essential items remained affordable for the general public. Additionally, the OPA administered rationing programs to ensure equitable distribution of scarce resources such as food and fuel. Rationing was necessary to manage consumption and guarantee that the military had the supplies it needed while preventing shortages for civilians.

Through these efforts, the OPA aimed to mitigate the economic strains of war and maintain stability on the home front, making its focus on inflation control and rationing particularly significant during this period.