Unit 8: World War II

Nazism: A political ideology associated with the Nazi Party in Germany under Adolf Hitler, characterized by dictatorial power, extreme nationalism, and racism, particularly anti-Semitism.

Anti-Semitism: Prejudice against, hatred of, or discrimination against Jews.

Collectives: Groups of individuals who come together for a common purpose, often used in a social or political context, including collective farming or communal living.

Neutrality Acts: Laws passed in the United States during the 1930s aimed at preventing American involvement in foreign conflicts, particularly in Europe.

Blitzkrieg: A military tactic utilized by the Germans in World War II that emphasizes rapid and surprising attacks to defeat opponents quickly.

Appeasement: A diplomatic policy aimed at avoiding war by making concessions to an aggressor, most notably associated with the pre-war policies towards Nazi Germany.

Bracero Program: A series of laws and diplomatic agreements between the United States and Mexico that allowed for the temporary employment of Mexican laborers in the U.S. agricultural sector during World War II and after.

Nisei: American-born children of Japanese immigrants, often used in the context of their experiences during World War II, including internment.

Occupation: The control and possession of a territory by a foreign military power, often following conflict.

Totalitarian: A political system where the state recognizes no limits to its authority and seeks to regulate every aspect of public and private life.

Rationing: The controlled distribution of scarce resources, goods, or services, often implemented during wars to ensure equitable access to basic necessities.

Internment: The forced relocation and confinement of individuals, often seen with the Japanese-American internment during World War II in the United States.

Fascism: A far-right authoritarian ultranationalism characterized by dictatorial power, forcible suppression of opposition, and strong regimentation of society.

Nuremberg Laws: Anti-Semitic laws enacted in Nazi Germany in 1935 that deprived Jews of citizenship and rights, serving as a foundation for further discriminatory legislation.

Kamikaze: Japanese suicide pilots who attacked enemy ships during World War II, symbolizing the extreme measures taken in warfare.