Laborers That Would Not Work

During World War II, native labor had to be used in Panama to build certain vital projects. But the schedules were always behind because the natives refused to work more than a few days a week. That was all the wage they needed for their wants. Why should they work any more? Arguments and pleas were useless. Finally the American commander changed tactics. He imported a supply of Sears, Roebuck catalogues and saw to it that his workers received them. The absentee problem vanished immediately. The natives had acquired wants and were willing to work for their fulfillment. (Encyclopedia of Illustrations #8141).