35 World War II, Part 1

These flashcards cover key events, policies, and figures involved in World War II as discussed in the lecture.

What two major events shaped America's foreign policy before World War II?

The Great Depression and World War I.

What was America's sentiment in the lead-up to World War II classified as?

An age of isolationism.

What were the Neutrality Acts?

Legislation that banned the sale of arms to belligerents.

What did the Lend Lease Act authorize?

Military aid to countries promising to pay it back after the war.

What event led to the U.S. formally entering World War II?

The attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941.

What was the significance of the Bataan Death March?

It was the largest surrender of American troops in history.

What is the strategy called that involved taking Japanese controlled islands during the Pacific War?

Island Hopping.

What was America's role in the North African campaign during WWII?

American troops first fought against Axis forces in North Africa before the European invasion.

Who was Ernie Pyle?

A famous war correspondent who wrote about the personal experiences of soldiers.

What was the aim of the Manhattan Project?

To develop atomic bombs.

How many bombs were dropped on Japan in World War II?

Two atomic bombs.

What were the estimated casualties from the atomic bomb dropped on Hiroshima?

Approximately 140,000 people.

What is one argument against the use of atomic bombs on Japan?

Japan would have surrendered if allowed to keep their emperor.

How did WWII change the concept of bombing civilian targets?

Targeting civilians became an acceptable strategy during total war.

Why is the understanding of Truman's decision to drop atomic bombs important?

It challenges our understanding of ethics in warfare and history.

What was the estimated percentage of civilian casualties in WWII?

About 40% of the estimated 50 million deaths were civilians.

What was the purpose of the Good Neighbor Policy?

To reduce U.S. intervention in Latin American politics.

What does calling America the 'arsenal of democracy' refer to?

The U.S. providing military aid primarily to the Allies during WWII.

What was the outcome of the December 7, 1941 attack on Pearl Harbor?

It resulted in the U.S. declaration of war on Japan.

What was the death toll in Hiroshima and Nagasaki combined?

Over 140,000 people due to the atomic bombs.

What event occurred on June 6, 1944, during WWII?

The D-Day invasion of Normandy.

What marked the end of WWII in Europe?

V-E Day on May 8th or 9th, 1945.