Untitled Flashcards Set

Annexation of Hawai’i

Strategic takeover of Hawaii by the U.S. in 1898, motivated by its location, economic interests, and military needs.

Spanish-American War

Conflict in 1898 triggered by U.S. support for Cuban independence, resulting in Spain's loss of territories.

Sinking of the USS Maine

Explosion of a U.S. battleship in Havana Harbor that ignited public support for the Spanish-American War.

Treaty of Paris (1898)

Agreement that ended the Spanish-American War, leading to U.S. control over Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines.

Emilio Aguinaldo

Filipino revolutionary leader who fought against Spain and later opposed U.S. rule in the Philippines.

Zimmermann Telegram

Secret German proposal to Mexico for an alliance against the U.S., which escalated tensions leading to WWI.

U-Boat Attacks

German submarine assaults on ships during WWI, threatening American lives and trade.

Selective Service Act (1917)

Law that established military conscription for U.S. men during WWI.

War Industries Board

Agency that coordinated production and resource allocation for wartime needs during WWI.

Espionage and Sedition Acts

Legislation that limited anti-war speech and actions in the U.S. during WWI.

Appeasement

Policy of allowing Hitler to annex territory to avoid conflict, which ultimately failed.

Neutrality Acts

Laws aimed at keeping the U.S. out of foreign wars prior to WWII.

Selective Training and Service Act (1940)

First peacetime draft in the U.S., preparing for potential involvement in WWII.

Lend-Lease Bill (1941)

U.S. program to provide military aid to Allied nations without direct engagement in WWII.

Cash and Carry Policy

U.S. policy allowing nations to purchase arms if they paid upfront and transported them.

Pearl Harbor Attack

December 7, 1941, Japanese surprise attack that led to U.S. entry into WWII.

War Production Board

Government body that coordinated the production of war materials and rationing during WWII.

Manhattan Project

Secret U.S. project to develop the atomic bomb during WWII.

Japanese Internment Camps

Relocation of over 120,000 Japanese Americans during WWII due to wartime fears.

Bombing of Japan

U.S. atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki in August 1945 to force Japan's surrender.

Potsdam Declaration

Demand from Allied leaders for Japan’s unconditional surrender, threatening destruction if ignored.

Change in Foreign Policy (WWI to WWII)

Shift from isolationism to interventionism, with increased support for Allies prior to direct involvement.

Atomic Bomb Debate

Discussion on using atomic bomb to end the war quickly versus ethical concerns over civilian casualties.