The Second World War and the Americas (1933–45)

IB history paper 3

What was FDR’s (president) Good Neighbor Policy and how did it affect Latin America?

It promoted non-intervention and respect for sovereignty in Latin America. It improved U.S.–Latin American relations and helped gain support for the Allies during WWII.

How did Latin American countries respond to WWII?

Initially neutral, most shifted to support the Allies after the 1942 Rio Conference, expelling Axis diplomats and providing economic or military assistance.

What was the U.S. role in WWII?

Supplied Allies through Lend-Lease before 1941; led major military campaigns after joining the war; became a dominant military and economic force.

What did Brazil do in WWII?

Sent 25,000 troops to Italy (Brazilian Expeditionary Force); allowed U.S. air bases; broke ties with Axis—only Latin American country with troops in Europe.

How were African Americans affected by WWII?

Served in segregated units, joined war industries, and pushed for civil rights through the Double V campaign (victory against fascism and racism).

What role did Native Americans play in WWII?

Over 25,000 served in the military; Navajo Code Talkers were key in the Pacific; many joined the workforce, increasing integration into U.S. society.

How did WWII change women’s roles?

Women took jobs in factories and military services (WAC, WAVES); “Rosie the Riveter” symbolized change; challenged traditional gender roles.

How were minorities involved in the war effort?

Drafted into the military; joined workforce due to labor shortages; faced discrimination. Bracero Program brought Mexican laborers for farming.

What happened to Japanese Americans during WWII?

Over 110,000 were forcibly interned in camps under Executive Order 9066 due to fear of sabotage, despite being U.S. citizens.

How were Japanese Canadians treated during WWII?

Interned and displaced, especially in British Columbia. Property was seized. Justified by “security,” though no threat was proven.

How did the Americas react to the Holocaust?

Slow response; many countries, including the U.S., limited Jewish immigration. Knowledge of the Holocaust grew only late in the war.

What new technologies emerged during WWII?

Radar, sonar, jet engines, and codebreaking (Enigma). These innovations changed warfare and gave the Allies an edge.

What was the Manhattan Project?

A secret U.S. project that developed atomic bombs, which were dropped on Hiroshima and Nagasaki—ending the war and starting the atomic age.

How did WWII affect the U.S. economy and diplomacy?

Ended the Great Depression through war production; made the U.S. a superpower; led to leadership in postwar diplomacy (UN, Bretton Woods).