Gasoline Choices for the Greater Good: An Oral History discovery

Oil prices soar per barrel.  Pain at the pump.

Has this ever happened before in American history?

How did Americans cope?

Have students ask their parents and grandparents,

even an elderly neighbor, about their experiences.

Write them down.

What can we learn from those oral histories?

During WWII ration books arrived monthly.

My mother told me about the rationing of gasoline,

sugar, canned goods, clothing, and silk:

“Women turned in their silk stockings to make parachutes.

Since some food items were rationed,

Gramma Catherine, like many citizens, planted a Victory Garden.

Neighbors worked TOGETHER.”

All for the Greater Good.

The 1970s heralded an Oil Crisis in 1973 and 1979.

The OPEC countries had a stranglehold on the US and other countries

through control of supply and pricing.

They imposed an embargo that banned trade with the US.

Gas stations posted signs: SORRY. No Gas.

Hoping for even a few gallons, drivers waited in long lines.

In 1973 I carpooled to school with four other teachers.

Five of us in one car.

Laughter enriched those commutes. Not a chore. 

We were in it TOGETHER.

All for the Greater Good.

Right now gasoline prices surge because of the invasion of Ukraine.

What to do?

Replace complaint with creativity.

What if the fifty-some corporations that paid no income tax last year

distributed gas cards to every adult in the country

every month until the crisis wanes?

What if Free Passes to ride public transportation were available?

What if people carpooled like it’s 1973?

Sacrifice may be necessary, but our history tells us

that we will get through this. 

TOGETHER.

All for the Greater Good.