WW2 Vocab

World War II Study Guide

Key Events and Military Actions

Attack on Pearl Harbor

A surprise military strike by Japan on the U.S. naval base in Hawaii. It resulted in massive American casualties and the destruction of battleships and aircraft. The attack led to the United States formally entering World War II.

U.S. Declaration of War on Japan, Germany, and Italy

Following the attack on Pearl Harbor, the U.S. declared war on Japan. Shortly after, Germany and Italy declared war on the U.S., prompting America to enter the war on both the Pacific and European fronts.

Doolittle Raid

A U.S. air raid on Tokyo and other Japanese cities, designed as a retaliatory strike after Pearl Harbor. While it caused minimal damage, it boosted American morale and demonstrated Japan’s vulnerability.

Battle of Midway

A decisive naval battle between the U.S. and Japan. The U.S. successfully ambushed the Japanese fleet, sinking four of its aircraft carriers. This battle marked a turning point in the Pacific War by halting Japanese expansion.

Homefront and Social Impact

Executive Order 9066 / Japanese Internment

An order issued by President Franklin D. Roosevelt that led to the forced relocation and internment of Japanese Americans in camps. The policy was based on fears of espionage and disloyalty but was later recognized as a violation of civil rights.

Rosie the Riveter

A cultural icon representing the women who worked in factories and shipyards during WWII. She symbolized female empowerment and the crucial role women played in the war effort.

War Production Board

A government agency responsible for overseeing war production, ensuring that industries prioritized military needs over civilian goods. It coordinated the production of weapons, vehicles, and supplies for the war effort.

Double V Campaign

A movement led by African Americans to fight for victory abroad against fascism and victory at home against racial discrimination. It highlighted the hypocrisy of fighting for democracy while segregation and racism persisted in the U.S.

War Bonds in WWII

A way for the U.S. government to finance the war by selling bonds to citizens. Americans were encouraged to buy bonds to support the war effort, and they were repaid with interest after the war.

Office of Price Administration (OPA)

A government agency that controlled prices and rationing to prevent inflation and shortages. It regulated the distribution of goods like food, gas, and rubber to ensure fair access for all Americans.

Women in the Military During WWII

Women served in various non-combat roles, including nurses, pilots, and clerical workers. Programs like the Women’s Army Corps (WACs), Women Accepted for Volunteer Emergency Service (WAVES), and Women Airforce Service Pilots (WASPs) allowed women to contribute directly to the war.

Bracero Program

An agreement between the U.S. and Mexico that allowed Mexican laborers to work in American agriculture during labor shortages. While it provided employment opportunities, it also led to exploitation and poor working conditions.

Zoot Suit Riots

A series of violent clashes in Los Angeles between white servicemen and Mexican American youth who wore distinctive "zoot suits." The riots were fueled by racial tensions and resentment toward minorities.

A. Philip Randolph

A civil rights leader who organized the first African American labor union and pressured the U.S. government to desegregate the defense industry. His efforts led to Executive Order 8802, which prohibited racial discrimination in wartime jobs.

GI Bill of Rights

A law that provided benefits to returning WWII veterans, including funding for education, home loans, and unemployment assistance. It helped many veterans transition to civilian life and contributed to economic growth in post-war America.

Major WWII Conferences

Cairo Conference

A meeting between the U.S., Britain, and China to discuss the future of Asia after WWII. The leaders agreed that Japan would lose all territories taken from China and that Korea would gain independence.

Tehran Conference

A strategy meeting between the U.S., Britain, and the Soviet Union. It focused on coordinating military efforts, including plans for the D-Day invasion, and ensuring cooperation among the Allies.

Yalta Conference

A crucial meeting to discuss post-war Europe. The Allies agreed to divide Germany into occupation zones, allow Soviet influence in Eastern Europe, and establish the United Nations to promote global peace.

Potsdam Conference

A follow-up meeting where the Allies issued an ultimatum to Japan, demanding unconditional surrender. The conference also set the terms for Germany’s reconstruction and established the post-war balance of power.

Scientific & Military Developments

Manhattan Project

A top-secret U.S. research project that developed the first atomic bombs. The project culminated in the bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, leading to Japan’s surrender and the end of World War II.