Pg 707-717 (WWII and FDR)

How did the Great Depression influence U.S. foreign policy in the 1930s?

It disrupted global economies, led to a rise of fascist regimes, and fueled isolationist sentiment in the U.S., prioritizing domestic recovery.

What was President Roosevelt's warning about the rise of fascism?

Roosevelt warned that some nations had 'sold their heritage of freedom' to authoritarian rule and urged support for democracy.

Why was there strong isolationist sentiment in the U.S. during the 1930s?

Many Americans were disillusioned with World War I involvement and prioritized domestic issues due to economic struggles.

What was the purpose of the Nye Committee?

To investigate arms manufacturers' profits from WWI and suggest they pushed the U.S. into war for financial gain, which fueled isolationist attitudes.

What were the Neutrality Acts, and what did they restrict?

The Neutrality Acts banned arms sales, prohibited loans to warring nations, and introduced a 'cash-and-carry' policy, reflecting fears of involvement in another war.

What role did Charles Lindbergh and the America First Committee play in promoting isolationism?

Lindbergh was the public face of the AFC, which opposed U.S. intervention in the war through rallies and propaganda.

How did Roosevelt gradually move the U.S. closer to intervention?

He increased aid to Britain, expanded defense spending, and described the U.S. as the 'arsenal of democracy'.

What was the 'cash-and-carry' provision of the 1939 Neutrality Act?

It allowed warring nations to purchase military goods from the U.S. if they paid in cash and transported them on their own ships.

How did Roosevelt justify expanding defense spending in 1940?

He argued that the war in Europe threatened U.S. national security and that increased military readiness was necessary.

What did the Destroyers-for-Bases Deal with Britain signify?

It marked a clear step toward supporting the Allies by trading U.S. destroyers for military base rights in British territories.

Why did Roosevelt run for an unprecedented third term in 1940?

He believed experienced leadership was needed during the global crisis due to the growing war in Europe and the Pacific.

How did Roosevelt use the phrase 'arsenal of democracy'?

He argued for the U.S.'s moral duty to provide support to Allies to ensure democracy could survive against fascism.

What was the significance of the Lend-Lease Act (1941)?

It allowed military aid to any country deemed vital to U.S. security, effectively ending neutrality and signaling deeper involvement in the war.

What were the Four Freedoms articulated by Roosevelt?

1. Freedom of speech 2. Freedom of religion 3. Freedom from want 4. Freedom from fear.

What was the Atlantic Charter?

A document issued by Roosevelt and Churchill outlining U.S. war aims including economic cooperation and promoting national self-determination.

How did Japan's invasion of China lead to tensions with the U.S.?

Japan sought economic and military dominance in Asia through invasions, making it a threat to global stability opposed by the U.S.

What economic sanctions did Roosevelt impose on Japan in 1941?

He froze Japanese assets and cut off oil exports after Japan occupied Indochina, crippling Japan's economy.

What were the warning signs of a possible Japanese attack on the U.S. in late 1941?

U.S. intelligence intercepted messages indicating an imminent attack, but the exact target was unknown.

What happened during the attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941?

Japan launched a surprise attack killing 2,400 Americans and destroying several ships and aircraft.

How did Roosevelt's 'Day of Infamy' speech unify the nation for war?

He condemned the attack as treacherous, rallying Americans in support of war against Japan.

Why did Germany and Italy declare war on the U.S. after Japan's declaration?

They honored their Axis alliance after the U.S. declared war on Japan, officially bringing America into World War II.