(MONEY Magazine) – The legitimate fear that Americans have felt since the September attacks have set off a wave of buying frenzies. First, it was gas masks--including outdated models intended for use on movie sets--followed by Cipro and then rubber gloves. While there's much we can do to make ourselves feel safer, a look at modern history suggests that hoarding one commodity usually just touches off a run on another.

1940s During World War II, rationing of shoes leads citizens to start hoarding clothes, while rationing of canned meat sparks a run on canned vegetables.

Early 1970s Sketchy government info about gas shortages causes brief runs on saccharin, beef, coffee and canning lids. The frenzy is capped off when a joke by TV's Johnny Carson sparks panic buying of toilet paper.

Late 1970s With the economy in an inflationary spiral, Americans begin stashing gold coins. But as gold becomes scarce, some begin hoarding copper, zinc and even sugar and cocoa--while others resort to buying up wedding rings and gold teeth for resale.

--Jeanne Lee