Key Concepts from World War II: The Home Front

These flashcards cover significant events, concepts, and legislation related to the home front during World War II.

What were the causes of the attack on Pearl Harbor?

The attack on Pearl Harbor was caused by Japan's desire to neutralize the U.S. Pacific Fleet to prevent interference with its expansion in Southeast Asia.

What were the consequences of the attack on Pearl Harbor?

The consequences included the United States' formal entry into World War II, the mobilization of American industry for war, and increased domestic surveillance of Japanese Americans.

What was the U.S. involvement in WWII prior to the attack on Pearl Harbor?

Prior to the attack on Pearl Harbor, the U.S. was involved in supporting Allied nations through programs like Lend-Lease, and had notably cut off oil supplies to Japan.

What role did espionage and aggression from Japanese and Germans play in WWII?

Espionage and aggression from Japan and Germany included intelligence gathering, strategic military attacks, and spearheading aggressive actions in Europe and the Pacific.

What was the Four Freedoms Speech?

The Four Freedoms Speech, delivered by President Franklin D. Roosevelt, outlined four essential human freedoms: freedom of speech, freedom of worship, freedom from want, and freedom from fear.

What is the War Powers Act?

The War Powers Act is a federal law that requires the President to consult with Congress before deploying U.S. forces and to withdraw forces after 60 days unless Congress approves further action.

How did the military train and prepare during WWII?

Military training during WWII involved extensive drills, the establishment of boot camps, and the development of specialized units like the Tuskegee Airmen and Navy's code talkers.

What was the role of women in the WWII workforce?

Women played a crucial role in the WWII workforce, taking on positions traditionally held by men, such as factory workers, engineers, and even pilots with organizations like the WASP.

What role did unions play during the war?

Unions played a significant role by negotiating higher wages, better working conditions, and ensuring labor rights while supporting the war effort through increased production.

How did industrialization impact WWII?

Industrialization during WWII led to mass production of war materials, allowing the U.S. to supply both its military and the Allies with necessary equipment and munitions.

How was the war financed?

The war was financed through war bonds, increased taxes, and government borrowing, significantly impacting the national debt.

What was the economic impact of the war?

The war brought economic recovery from the Great Depression, leading to full employment, increased industrial output, and technological advancements.

What was Japanese internment during WWII?

Definition: Japanese internment involved the forced relocation and incarceration of Japanese Americans in camps due to fears of espionage after Pearl Harbor

What was the significance of Korematsu v. The United States?

Korematsu v. The United States was a landmark Supreme Court case that upheld the government's decision to intern Japanese Americans, widely criticized for its violation of civil liberties.

What role did African Americans play in WWII?

Definition: African Americans served in segregated units, contributed to the war effort in factories, and fought against racial discrimination while advocating for civil rights.

How did civil rights and 'V for Victory' relate to WWII?

Definition: The 'V for Victory' campaign was a symbol of support for the Allied efforts and also highlighted the fight for civil rights domestically, promoting equality.

What impact did popular culture have during WWII?

Popular culture, including movies and radio broadcasts, bolstered morale, disseminated propaganda, and provided entertainment for troops and civilians alike.

What was the role of propaganda during the war?

Propaganda during the war aimed to boost morale, promote enlistment, encourage rationing, and demonize enemy nations to unify public support.

What were rationing and community drives for materials?

Definition: Rationing involved limiting the consumption of goods to conserve resources for the war effort, supported by community drives to collect materials like rubber and metal.

What was the contribution of Japanese American soldiers during the war?

Japanese American soldiers, notably those in the 442nd Regimental Combat Team, served with valor and distinction in combat while combating prejudice at home.

What role did Mexican labor play during the war?

Definition: Mexican labor, through programs like the Bracero Program, provided essential agricultural and industrial labor to meet wartime production demands.

What were the 'Zoot Suit' riots?

The 'Zoot Suit' riots were a series of conflicts in 1943 in Los Angeles, fueled by racial tensions between servicemen and Mexican American youths wearing zoot suits.

What was Truman’s transition to power?

Truman’s transition to power occurred after FDR's death in April 1945, leading to his leadership during the final months of WWII and the start of the Cold War.

What are VE & VJ Day?

VE Day (May 8, 1945) marked the Allies' victory in Europe, while VJ Day (August 15, 1945) signified Japan's surrender, effectively ending the war.

What is the GI Bill?

The GI Bill provided veterans with benefits including education, housing, and unemployment assistance, significantly impacting post-war American society.

What were the contributions of the Navajo Code Talkers?

Navajo Code Talkers used their native language to create an unbreakable code for military communications, playing a vital role in the Pacific Theater.