U.S. History Keyterms 23

Fascism

A political ideology that emphasizes authoritarian nationalism, dictatorial power, and the suppression of opposition, often characterized by centralized control of private enterprise and strong regimentation of society.

Axis Powers

The coalition of countries led by Germany, Italy, and Japan during World War II, which opposed the Allied Powers.

Neutrality Act of 1935

A U.S. law that aimed to prevent American involvement in foreign conflicts by prohibiting the export of arms and munitions to belligerent nations.

Munich Conference

A meeting held in 1938 where Britain and France allowed Germany to annex the Sudetenland in Czechoslovakia in a failed attempt to prevent World War II.

Lend Lease Act

A policy enacted in 1941 that allowed the U.S. to provide military aid to foreign nations, particularly Britain, during World War II, without direct involvement.

Pearl Harbor

The surprise military attack by the Imperial Japanese Navy on the United States naval base at Pearl Harbor in Hawaii on December 7, 1941, which led to the U.S. entering World War II.

Code Talkers

Native American soldiers who used their languages to create unbreakable codes during World War II, significantly contributing to U.S. military communication.

Executive Order 9066

A presidential directive issued in 1942 that authorized the internment of Japanese Americans in camps during World War II, citing national security concerns.

Double V Campaign

A civil rights campaign aimed at achieving victory against fascism abroad and racial discrimination at home during World War II.

Manhattan Project

A secret project during World War II that developed the first atomic bombs, leading to the end of the war.

Benito Mussolini

Fascist leader of Italy who allied with Nazi Germany during World War II, known for his authoritarian regime and role in the Axis Powers.

Hideki Tojo

Japanese general and prime minister during World War II, known for leading Japan's militaristic expansion and war efforts.

Winston Churchill

British Prime Minister during World War II, known for his leadership and speeches that inspired British resistance against Nazi Germany.

Harry S. Truman

33rd President of the United States, he succeeded Franklin D. Roosevelt and made key decisions during the latter part of World War II, including the use of atomic bombs on Japan.

Dwight D. Eisenhower

34th President of the United States, served during the post-World War II era, and implemented policies of containment against communism.

D-day

The Allied forces' invasion of Normandy on June 6, 1944, during World War II, which marked a significant turning point in the conflict.