The American Expeditionary Force began arriving in Europe in July 1918 to help defend Paris. By September 1918, over 1.25 million Americans were fighting under General John J. Pershing in France. Although their involvement came late in the war, the American troops made a significant impact and helped turn the tide in favor of the Allies. On the home front, the U.S. government mobilized resources through taxation, loans, and by taking control of key industries. Over 4 million men were drafted into the military, while women and minorities filled important industrial jobs. The government also limited civil liberties by censoring speech critical of the war effort.