In World War II there were several fronts that had their own issues and benefits as a result of the war. The home and state of Joseph Grossi, Pennsylvania, was no exception to this. The economy was booming, and industrialism was running. Companies and counties within Pennsylvania increased production. Notable changes include the increase in coal extraction rising to one-seventh of the reserves, Bethlehem Steel becoming a major supporter of national defense by producing 73.4 million tons of steel and 1,100+ ships, and PA steel mills producing 31% of U.S. steel and 20% of the world's supply. Also, universities around the state began researching ways to aid the fight, the University of Pennsylvania particularly contributed to developments in radar and other technologies. Although the home front did develop positively from the war there were many causalities as a result as well, over 25,000 people died.