World War II: Homefront and Social Changes

A collection of flashcards covering major themes, events, and social changes during World War II as discussed in the lecture.

What was a significant theme discussed regarding African American service members during World War II?

The theme of second class citizenship and the frustration of African American service members sacrificing much while receiving little recognition at home.

What was Executive Order 8802?

Executive Order 8802 prohibited discrimination in defense industries and established the Fair Employment Practices Committee (FEPC) to oversee these policies.

What role did A. Philip Randolph play in advocating for black rights during World War II?

A. Philip Randolph was a labor and civil rights leader who organized the March on Washington to demand an end to racial discrimination in defense industries.

What impact did World War II have on women's participation in the workforce?

World War II significantly increased women's workforce participation from 20% in 1920 to 36% by the end of the war, largely due to the demand for labor in wartime industries.

What was the Bracero Program?

The Bracero Program was a bilateral agreement initiated in 1942 that recruited Mexican laborers to work in U.S. agriculture during World War II.

How were Japanese Americans treated during World War II?

Japanese Americans faced internment in camps due to fears of espionage and were unjustly removed from their homes and communities without trial.

What was the Fair Employment Practices Committee (FEPC)?

The FEPC was established by Executive Order 8802 to prevent discrimination in federal employment and enforce compliance with existing nondiscrimination policies.

What result did the internment of Japanese Americans have on their personal rights?

Two-thirds of Japanese Americans interned were U.S. citizens and they were denied due process, facing drastic restrictions on their civil liberties.

What was the significance of the 'Rosie the Riveter' symbol during the war?

'Rosie the Riveter' represented women who worked in factories and was used to encourage female labor participation during World War II.

Why did the U.S. government target Japanese Americans during World War II more than Germans or Italians?

Japanese Americans faced disproportionate targeting due to racial prejudice and legal restrictions that limited their ability to gain U.S. citizenship.