U.S. Foreign Policy and Defense Speech: The Arsenal of Democracy (1940)

What did the Nazi leaders intend for Europe?

To dominate all life and thought in Germany, enslave Europe, and use its resources to dominate the world.

What was the purpose of President Roosevelt's address on December 29, 1940?

To discuss national security and the importance of preventing a war that threatens American independence.

What did the leader of the Nazis claim about the world?

He stated that there are two worlds opposed to each other and that reconciliation is impossible.

What was the state of American industry eight years prior to Roosevelt's speech?

American industry was grinding to a halt, and the banking system had ceased to function.

What does Roosevelt assert about the Axis powers' intentions?

They proclaim there can be no ultimate peace between their philosophy of government and that of the United States.

What does Roosevelt say about the U.S. and peace talks with aggressor nations?

The U.S. should not encourage peace talks until aggressor nations show a clear intention to abandon their domination plans.

Who did Roosevelt envision while preparing his speech?

He envisioned American workers, shopkeepers, farmers, and the elderly affected by the banking crisis.

What was the significance of the Monroe Doctrine according to Roosevelt?

It was conceived as a defense measure against threats from Europe, ensuring the Western Hemisphere remained free from aggression.

What is the implication of the Axis powers controlling Europe and Asia?

They would be able to bring enormous military and naval resources against the Americas.

How do the Nazis justify their occupations of other nations?

They claim to restore order or protect nations from aggression by others.

What would be the consequence of a Nazi victory in Europe for the Americas?

The Americas would live under the threat of military aggression, requiring a permanent militaristic stance.

What example does Roosevelt give regarding Nazi justification for occupation?

Germany claimed it occupied Belgium to save Belgians from the British.

What misconception do some people have about safety if Great Britain falls?

They believe the broad expanse of the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans would keep the U.S. safe.

What strategic advantage would a South American country in Nazi hands provide?

It would serve as a base for German attacks on other republics in the hemisphere.

How has the distance between continents changed since the days of clipper ships?

Modern bombers can cover distances much faster, making the oceans less of a barrier.

What capability do modern planes have regarding transatlantic travel?

They can fly from the British Isles to New England and back without refueling.

What future does Roosevelt suggest for Ireland if the Nazis win?

He questions whether Ireland could hold out against Nazi aggression.

What is the main concern regarding Irish freedom in the context of global conflict?

The concern is whether Ireland can maintain its freedom in an unfree world dominated by Axis powers.

What does the speaker suggest about the Axis powers' intentions toward the Western Hemisphere?

The speaker warns against the wishful thinking that Axis powers would not attack the Western Hemisphere, emphasizing their desire for resources.

What does the speaker say about the dangers within the United States?

The speaker notes that dangerous forces are already present within the U.S., seeking to create division and undermine unity.

What is the speaker's stance on the concept of appeasement with the Nazis?

The speaker argues that appeasement is futile and that it leads to total surrender rather than peace.

What does the speaker believe is necessary for the U.S. to avoid war?

The speaker believes that supporting nations fighting against the Axis powers is crucial to prevent future attacks on the U.S.

How does the speaker describe the proposed 'new order' by the Axis powers?

The 'new order' is characterized as an unholy alliance aimed at domination and enslavement, contrary to the principles of freedom and consent.

What does the speaker say about the role of American citizens in aiding the Axis powers?

Some American citizens, often unwittingly, are contributing to the goals of the dictators by promoting division and intolerance.

What historical examples does the speaker provide to warn against appeasement?

The speaker cites the fates of Austria, Czechoslovakia, Poland, Norway, Belgium, the Netherlands, Denmark, and France as cautionary tales.

What is the speaker's view on the concept of a 'negotiated peace'?

The speaker dismisses the idea of a 'negotiated peace' as nonsense, equating it to paying tribute to outlaws under threat.

What does the speaker identify as essential for the defense of freedom?

The speaker emphasizes the need to supply allies with weapons and resources to enable them to fight for their liberty.

What does the speaker say about the British Empire's role in the current conflict?

The British Empire is described as the spearhead of resistance against world conquest, demonstrating gallantry in their fight.

What is the speaker's perspective on the risks involved in supporting the fight against the Axis powers?

The speaker acknowledges risks in any course of action but believes supporting the fight is the least risky option for future peace.

What does the speaker imply about the consequences of a dictated peace?

A dictated peace would lead to further conflict, armament races, and trade wars, rather than genuine peace.

What does the speaker suggest about the timeline for action against the Axis powers?

The speaker insists that immediate action is necessary, stating it will never be too early to act against the threat.

How does the speaker characterize the actions of the Axis powers?

The Axis powers are characterized as ruthless and unyielding, with no possibility of reasoning or appeasement.

What does the speaker say about the American people's desire for truth?

The speaker notes that many Americans want to hear the truth about the dangers facing the nation, despite some wishing to ignore it.

What is the significance of the phrase 'Arsenal of Democracy'?

It refers to the U.S. commitment to supply allies with the necessary resources to defend against tyranny and maintain democracy.

What was the main purpose of the U.S. defense program during the Arsenal of Democracy speech?

To keep war away from the United States and maintain stability in prices and the cost of living.

What did the speaker say about sending an American Expeditionary Force to Europe?

There was no intention to send such a force, and any talk of it was labeled as deliberate untruth.

What was emphasized as necessary for the production of munitions?

Cooperation between the government, industry, and labor was essential for effective production.

What did the speaker identify as the role of American industrial genius?

To solve production problems and mobilize resources for defense.

What was the speaker's stance on the production of consumer goods during the defense effort?

Production of consumer goods must yield to the primary purpose of defense.

What did the speaker say about the workers' role in defense production?

Workers provide the human power necessary for producing defense materials like destroyers and tanks.

What was the speaker's call to action for the American people?

To put forth a mighty effort to increase production of all implements of defense.

How did the speaker describe the urgency of the defense effort?

As an emergency as serious as war itself, requiring patriotism and sacrifice.

What did the speaker believe about the Axis powers' chances of winning the war?

He believed the Axis powers were not going to win based on the latest information.

What was the significance of the term 'Arsenal of Democracy'?

It referred to the U.S. commitment to produce munitions and support allies in the fight against aggression.

What was the expected outcome of the U.S. defense efforts according to the speaker?

A successful increase in production to meet the threat to democratic values.

What did the speaker pledge regarding government officials' commitment to defense production?

That they would devote themselves wholeheartedly to the task of increasing production.

What was the speaker's view on the relationship between economic well-being and defense?

The government must protect the economic well-being of all citizens to ensure a strong defense.

What did the speaker say about the potential consequences of failing to expand defense industries?

Failure to expand essential industries could lead to dire consequences for national security.

What was the speaker's message regarding the production capacity of the nation?

The nation must not be limited by pessimistic views about the future and should expand production capacity.

How did the speaker characterize the British military support?

As invaluable and strengthened by the contributions of various allied forces.

What was the speaker's appeal to plant owners and managers?

To put every ounce of effort into producing munitions swiftly and without hesitation.

What did the speaker indicate about the future of defense production after the current needs are met?

The new productive capacity will be necessary for handling peacetime needs as well.

What was the speaker's assurance regarding the U.S. determination to aid Great Britain?

There would be no bottlenecks in the determination to aid Great Britain despite any threats.

What did the speaker say about the dignity of workers?

Workers possess human dignity and are entitled to security just like engineers and managers.

What was the speaker's view on the relationship between strikes and defense production?

The nation expects defense industries to operate without interruption from strikes or lockouts.

What did the speaker believe about the American people's resolve?

He had confidence that the American people would make a significant effort to increase defense production.