WW2 Vocab

What was the significance of the Attack on Pearl Harbor?

It led to massive American casualties, destruction of battleships and aircraft, and formally entered the U.S. into World War II.

What prompted the U.S. to declare war on Japan, Germany, and Italy?

The U.S. declared war on Japan following the Pearl Harbor attack, leading Germany and Italy to declare war on the U.S.

What was the Doolittle Raid?

A U.S. air raid on Tokyo designed as retaliation for Pearl Harbor, which boosted American morale despite causing minimal damage.

What was the outcome of the Battle of Midway?

It was a decisive naval battle where the U.S. ambushed the Japanese fleet, sinking four aircraft carriers, marking a turning point in the Pacific War.

What did Executive Order 9066 result in?

It led to the forced relocation and internment of Japanese Americans in camps due to fears of espionage and disloyalty.

Who was Rosie the Riveter?

A cultural icon representing women who worked in factories and shipyards during WWII, symbolizing female empowerment.

What was the role of the War Production Board?

It oversaw war production and ensured that industries prioritized military needs over civilian goods.

What was the Double V Campaign?

A movement led by African Americans to fight for victory abroad against fascism and at home against racial discrimination.

How did the U.S. finance WWII with War Bonds?

The U.S. government sold bonds to citizens to support the war effort, which were repaid with interest after the war.

What was the Office of Price Administration (OPA)?

A government agency that controlled prices and rationing to prevent inflation and ensure fair access to goods.

What roles did women serve in the military during WWII?

Women served in non-combat roles such as nurses, pilots, and clerical workers through programs like the WACs and WAVES.

What was the Bracero Program?

An agreement that allowed Mexican laborers to work in U.S. agriculture during labor shortages, leading to issues of exploitation.

What were the Zoot Suit Riots?

Violent clashes in Los Angeles between white servicemen and Mexican American youth, sparked by racial tensions.

Who was A. Philip Randolph?

A civil rights leader who organized the first African American labor union and pressured for desegregation in wartime jobs.

What did the GI Bill of Rights provide?

Benefits to returning veterans, including education funding, home loans, and unemployment assistance.

What was discussed at the Cairo Conference?

The future of Asia post-WWII, agreeing Japan would lose territories taken from China and Korea would gain independence.

What was the focus of the Tehran Conference?

Coordinating military efforts and planning for the D-Day invasion among the U.S., Britain, and the Soviet Union.

What was agreed upon at the Yalta Conference?

The division of Germany into occupation zones, Soviet influence in Eastern Europe, and establishing the United Nations.

What was the purpose of the Potsdam Conference?

Issuing an ultimatum to Japan for unconditional surrender and discussing terms for Germany's reconstruction.

What was the Manhattan Project?

A top-secret U.S. project that developed atomic bombs, leading to the bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki.