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Imperialism Rise in Nationalism • During the French and Industrial Revolution, nationalism continued to inspire nations to increase their political and economic power. • Nationalism became the ideal force in the political, economic, and cultural life in the world, becoming the first universal ideology-organizing all people into a nation state. Nationalism Defined • The strong belief that the interest of a particular nation-state is of primary importance. o Nation-State – a state where the vast majority shares the same culture and is conscious of it. It is an ideal in which cultural boundaries match up with political ones. • As an ideology, it is based on the idea that the individual’s loyalty and devotion to the nation-state surpass other individual/group interests. • Exalting one nation’s belief above all others and placing primary emphasis on promotion of its culture and interests, excluding the interests of others. Changing the World through a Nationalistic Vision • The French Revolution significantly changed the political world and how countries govern. • The Industrial Revolution significantly changed the economic world. • The Age of Imperialism (1870-1914) dramatically changed the political, economic, and social world. What is Imperialism? • Imperialism- The policy of extending the rule of authority of an empire or nation over foreign countries, or of acquiring and holding colonies and dependencies. Power and influence are done through diplomacy or military force. Reasons for Imperialism • There are 5 main motives for empires to seek to expand their rule over other countries or territories: 1. Exploratory • Imperial nations wanted to explore territory unknown to them. • The main purpose for this exploration of new lands was for resource acquisition, medical or scientific research. o Charles Darwin • Other reasons: o Cartography (map making) o Adventure 2. Ethnocentric • Europeans acted on the concept of ethnocentrism o Ethnocentrism- the belief that one race or nation is superior to others. • Ethnocentrism developed out of Charles Darwin’s “survival of the fittest” theory. Philosophers used the theory to explain why there were superior races and inferior races. o This became known as Social Darwinism. • Most imperial nations believed that their cultural values or beliefs were superior to other nations or groups. • Believed imperial conquest would bring successful culture to inferior people. 3. Religious • Imperial expansion promoted a religious movement of people setting out to convert new members of conquered territories. • With the belief that Christianity was superior, missionaries believed it was their duty to spread Christianity to the world. • Christian missionaries established churches, and in doing so, they spread Western culture values as well. • Typically, missionaries spread the imperial nation's language through education and religious interactions. 4. Political • Patriotism and Nationalism helped spur our imperial growth, thus creating competition against other supremacies. • It was a matter of national pride, respect, and security. • Furthermore, European rivalry spurred nations for imperial conquest. Since land equaled power, the more land a country could acquire the more prestige they could wield across the globe. • Empires wanted strategic territory to ensure access for their navies and armies around the world. • The empire believed they must expand, thus they needed to be defended. 5. Economic • With the Industrial Revolution taking place during the same time, governments and private companies contributed to find ways to maximize profits. • Imperialized countries provided European factories and markets with natural resources (old and new) to manufacture products. • Trading posts were strategically placed around imperialized countries to maximize and increase profits. o Such places as the Suez Canal in Egypt which was controlled by the British provided strategic choke hold over many European powers. o Imperial powers competed over the best potential locations for resources, markets, and trade. History of Imperialism • Ancient Imperialism 600 BCE-500 CE o Roman Empire, Ancient China, Greek Empire, Persian Empire, Babylonian Empire. • Middle Age Imperialism (Age of Colonialism-1400-1800s) o Great Britain, Spain, Portugal, France, Netherlands (Dutch), Russia. • Age of Imperialism 1870-1914 o Great Britain, Spain, Portugal, France, Germany, Belgium, Italy, Japan, United States, Ottoman Empire, Russia. • Current Imperialism...? o U.S. Military intervention (i.e. Middle East) o Russia’s Invasion of Ukraine. Imperialism Colonialism • Refers to political or economic control, either legally or illegally. • Refers to where one nation assumes control over the other. • Creating an empire, expanding into neighboring regions and expanding the dominance far outside its borders. • Where a country conquers and rules over other regions for exploiting resources from the conquered country for the conqueror's benefit. • Foreign government controls/governs a territory without significant settlement. • Foreign government controls/governs the territory from within the land being colonized. • Little to no new settlement established on fresh territory. • Movement to settle to fresh territory. Age of Colonialism WHEN? • Started around the late 1400s and ended around the late 1700s/early 1800s. WHY? • Primary Reason: European countries, wished to find a direct trade route to Asia (China & India) and the East Indies. o Quicker and relatively more effective than land routes over Asia. • Secondary Reason: Empire expansion (land power) WHO? • Countries involved: Great Britain, France, Spain, the Dutch & Portugal. • Individuals’ knowns as Mercantilists believed that maintaining imperialized territory and colonizing the region could serve as a source of wealth, while personal motives by rulers, explorers, and missionaries could therefore promote their own agenda. o This agenda being “Glory, God and Gold”. Mercantilism • Mercantilism was a popular and main economic system for many European nations during the 16th to 18th centuries. • The main goal was to increase a nation’s wealth by promoting government rule of a nation’s economy for the purpose of enhancing state power at the expense of rival national power. • It was the economic counterpart of political absolutism. Why did mercantilists want colonies? • Mercantilists believed that a country must have an excess of exports over imports. • By colonizing territory, it provided the nation with indispensable wealth of precious raw materials. • Therefore, the claimed territory served as a market and supplier of raw materials for the mother country. Which, in time, provided an excess of exports for the nation and thus created wealth. o Development of Trading Companies to support this economic system. Hudson Bay Company – (1670). Controlled primarily North America. o Dutch East Indie Trading Company (1682) o East Indian Trading Company (1600) o Royal African Trade Company (1672) WHERE? • European nations begun to colonize the America, India and the East Indies to create a direct trade route. • Great Britain was the leading power in India, Australia and North America, South Africa. • Spain colonized central and South America. • French held Louisiana, coastal land of Africa and French Guinea. • The Dutch built an empire in the East Indies. • The Portuguese was able to take control of present-day Brazil and the southern tip of South America and Japan. Age of Colonialism • As countries started to imperialize these regions, eventually the concept of colonization took hold: • This is what makes the Age of Colonialism extremely different! End of Colonialism • By 1800, colonialism became less popular • Why? o Revolutions (Spain, France & American) o The Napoleonic Wars o Struggle for nationalism and democracy. o Exhausted all money and energy to supervise their colonies. Waiting to wake again • Imperialism would stay quiet for close to 50 years before Great Britain and France’s economies revitalized. • The outbreak of the Industrial Revolution only encouraged and revitalized European nations to begin their conquest for new territory and resources. Age of Imperialism THE SCRAMBLE FOR AFRICA 1870-1914 Conditions Prior to Imperialism of Africa  European interest in exploiting Africa was minimal.  Their economic interests & profit in Africa primarily came through coastal trade that took place during the 1500-1700s.  The slave trade became the main source of European profit.  Furthermore, disease, political instability, lack of transportation and unpredictable climate all discouraged Europeans from seeking territory. Slave Trade & the Trans-Atlantic Slave Voyages  Forced labor was not uncommon during the 13-17th Centuries. Africans and Europeans had been trading goods and people across the Mediteranea for centuries.  This all changed from 1526 to 1867, as a new system of slavery was introduced that became highly “commercialized, racialized and inherited”  By 1690, the America and West Indies saw approximately 30,000 African people shipped from Africa. A century later, that number grew to 85,000 people per year.  By 1867, approximately 12.5 million people (about twice the population of Arizona) left Africa in a slave ship. What Changed? 1. End of the Slave Trade- Left a need for trade between Europe and Africa. 2. Innovation in technology- The steam engine and iron hulled boats allowed Europe 3. Discovery of new raw materials- Explorers located vast raw materials and resources and this only spurred imperialism with Europe in the wake of the Industrial Revolution. 4. Politics- Unification of Germany and Italy left little room to expand in Europe. Germany and Italy both needed raw materials to “catch up” with Britain and France so they looked to Africa. The Scramble for Africa  The scramble started in 1870.  Although some coastal land had previously been acquired before 1870, the need for territory quickly accelerated as European countries looked t get deeper into Africa.  Within 20 years, nearly all continents were placed under imperialistic rule. Who was Involved?  Great Britain  France  Germany  Italy  Portugal  Belgium  Spain (kind) Violent Affairs  Violence broke out multiple times when European nations looked to claim the same territory.  Germ Chancellor. Otto van Bismarck. Attempted to avert the possibility of violence against the European powers.  In 1884, Bismarck organized a conference in Berlin for the European nations. The Berlin Conference (1884-85)  The conference looked to set ground rules for future annexation of African territory by European Nations.  Annexation is the forcible acquisition and assertion of legal title over one state’s territory by another state, usually following military occupation of the territory.  From a distant perspective, it looked like it would reduce tensions among European nations and avert war.  At the heart of the meeting, these European countries negotiated their claims to African territory, made it official and then mapped their regions.  Furthermore, the leaders agreed to allow free trade among imperialized territory and some homework for negotiating future European claims in Africa was established. Further Path  After the conference, european powers continued to expand their claims in Africa so that by 1900. 90% of the African territory had been claimed. A Turn towards Colonization?  Upon the imperialization of African territory, European nations and little interest in African land unless it produced economic wealth.  Therefore, European governments put little effort and expertise into these imperialized regions.  In most cases, this emat a form of indirect rule. Thus, governing the natin without sufficient settlement and government from within the mother country. Some Exceptions  There were some exemptions through in Africa as colonization was a necessary for some regions i n Africa.  Some regions where diamonds and gold were present. Government looked to protectorate the regions and establish rule and settlement in the regions.  Protectorates: A state controlled and protected by another state for defense against aggression and other law violations. Would  Some examples include South Africa, Botswana, Zimbabwe and Congo. Conclusion  Although it may appear that the Berlin Conference averted war amid the African Scramble, imperialism eventually brought the world into worldwide conflict.  With the continued desire to create an empire by European nations. World War 1 would break out which can be linked to this quest at imperialism.
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Events Leading Up to America's Entrance into World War II

Introduction to the Timeline

  • Initial Isolationism: The United States starts World War II in a stance of isolationism, similar to its stance in World War I.

  • Date of War Start: The war begins on September 1, 1939, with the invasion of Poland by Germany.

  • Significance of 1941: Focus on understanding the reasons behind U.S. involvement starting in 1941.

Historical Context Before 1939

Japan in the 1930s
  • Meiji Restoration: Japan's attempt to resist domination through westernization in the late 19th century.

  • Shift in Government: In the 1930s, militarists take control; they promote hyper-nationalism and racist ideologies claiming superiority over other Asian nations.

  • Expansion into China: Japan aims to expand its empire, particularly targeting China amidst its internal civil war.

China in the 1930s
  • Civil War: By the 1930s, Chinese factions include the Chinese Communist Party (led by Mao Zedong) and the Kuomintang (led by Chiang Kai-shek).

  • Chaos as Opportunity: Japan exploits this civil war to invade and occupy parts of China, starting with Manchuria in 1931.

International Reactions and U.S. Involvement

U.S. Isolationism and Response to Japan
  • Non-Intervention Stance: The U.S. initially opts to stay out of the conflict, considering it a European or Asian problem, not directly affecting them.

  • Relocation of the Pacific Fleet: Roosevelt moves the U.S. Pacific Fleet from San Diego to Hawaii to signal strength to Japan.

Germany's Rise Post-World War I
  • Weimar Republic Failures: The economic struggles and political instability of the Weimar Republic after the Treaty of Versailles leads to the rise of Hitler.

  • Hitler’s Strategy: Using propaganda and appeal; he rises to power by dismantling democracy from within, claiming the Chancellor's position in 1933.

  • Nazi Ideology: Centered on racial superiority, specifically the Aryan race, leading to systemic discrimination and violence against Jews and other groups.

Lead-up to World War II

  • Aggressive Expansion: Germany begins rearming and then violating the Treaty of Versailles as it seeks to expand its territory.

  • Munich Agreement: Appeasement strategy by Britain and France, led by Prime Minister Neville Chamberlain, to avoid war with Germany, believing they can placate Hitler.

Outbreak of War

  • Invasion of Poland: On September 1, 1939, Germany invades Poland, prompting Britain and France to declare war.

  • Expansion of Conflict: Other nations, including Japan, Germany, and Italy, form alliances, complicating the international situation.

Shift in American Attitudes

Prelude to U.S. Entry
  • America's Neutrality: Despite global events, the American public remains largely isolationist until 1940-1941 when Axis victories become overwhelming.

  • Lend-Lease Act (1941): The U.S. begins to supply Allied nations with weapons and resources, calling itself the "arsenal of democracy."

Japanese Aggression in Asia

  • Concerning Tactics in China: Reports of atrocities committed by Japanese troops in China lead to increased international concern.

  • Embargo on Japan: In response to Japan's actions in China, the U.S. implements an embargo, cutting off crucial resources, which Japan perceives as an act of war.

Pearl Harbor

  • Attack on December 7, 1941: Japan attacks Pearl Harbor, targeting the U.S. Pacific Fleet to incapacitate American military power in the Pacific.

  • Significance of Attack: Pearl Harbor marks the first direct attack on U.S. soil and galvanizes public support for entering the war.

  • U.S. Declaration of War: Following the attack on Pearl Harbor, the U.S. declares war on Japan, leading to its full involvement in World War II.


Events Leading Up to America's Entrance into World War II

Introduction to the Timeline

  • Initial Isolationism: The United States starts World War II in a stance of isolationism, echoing its approach from World War I, characterized by a reluctance to engage in European conflicts and a focus on domestic issues.

  • Date of War Start: The war begins on September 1, 1939, when Germany invades Poland, utilizing blitzkrieg tactics that combine fast-moving ground troops, tanks, and air support, overwhelming Polish defenses swiftly.

  • Significance of 1941: Understanding U.S. involvement in World War II starts in earnest in 1941, influenced largely by the Axis Powers' aggression and the shifting global landscape.

Historical Context Before 1939

Japan in the 1930s

  • Meiji Restoration: Japan undertakes the Meiji Restoration in the late 19th century, aiming to modernize its economy and military to resist colonization by Western powers.

  • Shift in Government: By the 1930s, Japan comes under militaristic rule, promoting hyper-nationalism and racial superiority ideologies, which justify imperial expansion in Asia.

  • Expansion into China: Japan aggressively expands into China during its civil war, viewing the conflict as an opportunity to establish dominance across Asia, driven by desires for resources and territory.

China in the 1930s

  • Civil War: By the 1930s, China is embroiled in a civil war between the Chinese Communist Party, led by Mao Zedong, and the Kuomintang, led by Chiang Kai-shek, leading to a fractured national landscape.

  • Chaos as Opportunity: Japan exploits the internal strife following its 1931 invasion of Manchuria, aiming to capture more territory and resources as both factions are weakened.

International Reactions and U.S. Involvement

U.S. Isolationism and Response to Japan

  • Non-Intervention Stance: Initially, the U.S. chooses non-intervention, viewing the conflict as largely European or Asian in nature, unworthy of American involvement, which is reflected in the Neutrality Acts passed during the late 1930s.

  • Relocation of the Pacific Fleet: In a strategic move, President Roosevelt shifts the U.S. Pacific Fleet from San Diego to Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, thereby signaling a posture of strength to Japan and preparing for eventual conflict.

Germany's Rise Post-World War I

  • Weimar Republic Failures: The post-World War I Weimar Republic faces destabilizing economic challenges, including hyperinflation, unemployment, and political extremism, creating fertile ground for radical ideologies.

  • Hitler’s Strategy: Adolf Hitler rises to power through the National Socialist German Workers' Party (Nazi Party), using propaganda and oratory to dismantle democratic structures, eventually becoming Chancellor in January 1933.

  • Nazi Ideology: Central to Nazi ideology is the belief in the racial superiority of the Aryan race, promoting nationalism that leads to aggressive expansionism and systemic discrimination against Jews, Romani people, and other minorities.

Lead-up to World War II

  • Aggressive Expansion: Germany begins rearming and further violating the Treaty of Versailles by the late 1930s, expanding its territory into the Rhineland, Austria, and Czechoslovakia without opposition.

  • Munich Agreement: Britain and France, under the policy of appeasement led by Prime Minister Neville Chamberlain, allow Hitler to annex parts of Czechoslovakia in hopes of avoiding war, demonstrating a grave miscalculation of Nazi ambitions.

Outbreak of War

  • Invasion of Poland: On September 1, 1939, Germany’s invasion of Poland leads to Britain and France declaring war on Germany just days later on September 3, marking the start of World War II.

  • Expansion of Conflict: The conflict quickly escalates as Japan, Germany, and Italy form the Axis Powers, establishing a trilateral military alliance that draws in numerous other nations.

Shift in American Attitudes

Prelude to U.S. Entry

  • America's Neutrality: Throughout 1939 to 1940, the American public largely holds isolationist views, but as Axis victories become increasingly apparent, the mood begins to shift toward supporting the Allies.

  • Lend-Lease Act (1941): In March 1941, the U.S. Congress passes the Lend-Lease Act to provide military aid to Allied nations, marking a significant shift from isolationism to supporting the Allies, with FDR heralding the U.S. as the "arsenal of democracy."

Japanese Aggression in Asia

  • Concerning Tactics in China: Reports of brutalities committed by Japanese forces in China, including massacres and the use of chemical weapons, intensify international scrutiny and outrage.

  • Embargo on Japan: In response to Japan's aggressive actions, the U.S. imposes an embargo on vital resources, particularly oil and scrap metal, leading Japan to perceive this as a direct threat and an act of war.

Pearl Harbor

  • Attack on December 7, 1941: Japan launches a surprise aerial attack on Pearl Harbor, resulting in significant loss of life and damage to the U.S. Pacific Fleet, aiming to cripple American naval power in the Pacific.

  • Significance of Attack: This attack marks the first direct hostile action against the U.S. and drastically alters public opinion, galvanizing support for entry into the war.

  • U.S. Declaration of War: Following the attack on Pearl Harbor, the U.S. formally declares war on Japan on December 8, 1941, leading to full-scale American involvement in World War II and paving the way for future engagements against Axis powers.


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Imperialism Rise in Nationalism • During the French and Industrial Revolution, nationalism continued to inspire nations to increase their political and economic power. • Nationalism became the ideal force in the political, economic, and cultural life in the world, becoming the first universal ideology-organizing all people into a nation state. Nationalism Defined • The strong belief that the interest of a particular nation-state is of primary importance. o Nation-State – a state where the vast majority shares the same culture and is conscious of it. It is an ideal in which cultural boundaries match up with political ones. • As an ideology, it is based on the idea that the individual’s loyalty and devotion to the nation-state surpass other individual/group interests. • Exalting one nation’s belief above all others and placing primary emphasis on promotion of its culture and interests, excluding the interests of others. Changing the World through a Nationalistic Vision • The French Revolution significantly changed the political world and how countries govern. • The Industrial Revolution significantly changed the economic world. • The Age of Imperialism (1870-1914) dramatically changed the political, economic, and social world. What is Imperialism? • Imperialism- The policy of extending the rule of authority of an empire or nation over foreign countries, or of acquiring and holding colonies and dependencies. Power and influence are done through diplomacy or military force. Reasons for Imperialism • There are 5 main motives for empires to seek to expand their rule over other countries or territories: 1. Exploratory • Imperial nations wanted to explore territory unknown to them. • The main purpose for this exploration of new lands was for resource acquisition, medical or scientific research. o Charles Darwin • Other reasons: o Cartography (map making) o Adventure 2. Ethnocentric • Europeans acted on the concept of ethnocentrism o Ethnocentrism- the belief that one race or nation is superior to others. • Ethnocentrism developed out of Charles Darwin’s “survival of the fittest” theory. Philosophers used the theory to explain why there were superior races and inferior races. o This became known as Social Darwinism. • Most imperial nations believed that their cultural values or beliefs were superior to other nations or groups. • Believed imperial conquest would bring successful culture to inferior people. 3. Religious • Imperial expansion promoted a religious movement of people setting out to convert new members of conquered territories. • With the belief that Christianity was superior, missionaries believed it was their duty to spread Christianity to the world. • Christian missionaries established churches, and in doing so, they spread Western culture values as well. • Typically, missionaries spread the imperial nation's language through education and religious interactions. 4. Political • Patriotism and Nationalism helped spur our imperial growth, thus creating competition against other supremacies. • It was a matter of national pride, respect, and security. • Furthermore, European rivalry spurred nations for imperial conquest. Since land equaled power, the more land a country could acquire the more prestige they could wield across the globe. • Empires wanted strategic territory to ensure access for their navies and armies around the world. • The empire believed they must expand, thus they needed to be defended. 5. Economic • With the Industrial Revolution taking place during the same time, governments and private companies contributed to find ways to maximize profits. • Imperialized countries provided European factories and markets with natural resources (old and new) to manufacture products. • Trading posts were strategically placed around imperialized countries to maximize and increase profits. o Such places as the Suez Canal in Egypt which was controlled by the British provided strategic choke hold over many European powers. o Imperial powers competed over the best potential locations for resources, markets, and trade. History of Imperialism • Ancient Imperialism 600 BCE-500 CE o Roman Empire, Ancient China, Greek Empire, Persian Empire, Babylonian Empire. • Middle Age Imperialism (Age of Colonialism-1400-1800s) o Great Britain, Spain, Portugal, France, Netherlands (Dutch), Russia. • Age of Imperialism 1870-1914 o Great Britain, Spain, Portugal, France, Germany, Belgium, Italy, Japan, United States, Ottoman Empire, Russia. • Current Imperialism...? o U.S. Military intervention (i.e. Middle East) o Russia’s Invasion of Ukraine. Imperialism Colonialism • Refers to political or economic control, either legally or illegally. • Refers to where one nation assumes control over the other. • Creating an empire, expanding into neighboring regions and expanding the dominance far outside its borders. • Where a country conquers and rules over other regions for exploiting resources from the conquered country for the conqueror's benefit. • Foreign government controls/governs a territory without significant settlement. • Foreign government controls/governs the territory from within the land being colonized. • Little to no new settlement established on fresh territory. • Movement to settle to fresh territory. Age of Colonialism WHEN? • Started around the late 1400s and ended around the late 1700s/early 1800s. WHY? • Primary Reason: European countries, wished to find a direct trade route to Asia (China & India) and the East Indies. o Quicker and relatively more effective than land routes over Asia. • Secondary Reason: Empire expansion (land power) WHO? • Countries involved: Great Britain, France, Spain, the Dutch & Portugal. • Individuals’ knowns as Mercantilists believed that maintaining imperialized territory and colonizing the region could serve as a source of wealth, while personal motives by rulers, explorers, and missionaries could therefore promote their own agenda. o This agenda being “Glory, God and Gold”. Mercantilism • Mercantilism was a popular and main economic system for many European nations during the 16th to 18th centuries. • The main goal was to increase a nation’s wealth by promoting government rule of a nation’s economy for the purpose of enhancing state power at the expense of rival national power. • It was the economic counterpart of political absolutism. Why did mercantilists want colonies? • Mercantilists believed that a country must have an excess of exports over imports. • By colonizing territory, it provided the nation with indispensable wealth of precious raw materials. • Therefore, the claimed territory served as a market and supplier of raw materials for the mother country. Which, in time, provided an excess of exports for the nation and thus created wealth. o Development of Trading Companies to support this economic system. Hudson Bay Company – (1670). Controlled primarily North America. o Dutch East Indie Trading Company (1682) o East Indian Trading Company (1600) o Royal African Trade Company (1672) WHERE? • European nations begun to colonize the America, India and the East Indies to create a direct trade route. • Great Britain was the leading power in India, Australia and North America, South Africa. • Spain colonized central and South America. • French held Louisiana, coastal land of Africa and French Guinea. • The Dutch built an empire in the East Indies. • The Portuguese was able to take control of present-day Brazil and the southern tip of South America and Japan. Age of Colonialism • As countries started to imperialize these regions, eventually the concept of colonization took hold: • This is what makes the Age of Colonialism extremely different! End of Colonialism • By 1800, colonialism became less popular • Why? o Revolutions (Spain, France & American) o The Napoleonic Wars o Struggle for nationalism and democracy. o Exhausted all money and energy to supervise their colonies. Waiting to wake again • Imperialism would stay quiet for close to 50 years before Great Britain and France’s economies revitalized. • The outbreak of the Industrial Revolution only encouraged and revitalized European nations to begin their conquest for new territory and resources. Age of Imperialism THE SCRAMBLE FOR AFRICA 1870-1914 Conditions Prior to Imperialism of Africa  European interest in exploiting Africa was minimal.  Their economic interests & profit in Africa primarily came through coastal trade that took place during the 1500-1700s.  The slave trade became the main source of European profit.  Furthermore, disease, political instability, lack of transportation and unpredictable climate all discouraged Europeans from seeking territory. Slave Trade & the Trans-Atlantic Slave Voyages  Forced labor was not uncommon during the 13-17th Centuries. Africans and Europeans had been trading goods and people across the Mediteranea for centuries.  This all changed from 1526 to 1867, as a new system of slavery was introduced that became highly “commercialized, racialized and inherited”  By 1690, the America and West Indies saw approximately 30,000 African people shipped from Africa. A century later, that number grew to 85,000 people per year.  By 1867, approximately 12.5 million people (about twice the population of Arizona) left Africa in a slave ship. What Changed? 1. End of the Slave Trade- Left a need for trade between Europe and Africa. 2. Innovation in technology- The steam engine and iron hulled boats allowed Europe 3. Discovery of new raw materials- Explorers located vast raw materials and resources and this only spurred imperialism with Europe in the wake of the Industrial Revolution. 4. Politics- Unification of Germany and Italy left little room to expand in Europe. Germany and Italy both needed raw materials to “catch up” with Britain and France so they looked to Africa. The Scramble for Africa  The scramble started in 1870.  Although some coastal land had previously been acquired before 1870, the need for territory quickly accelerated as European countries looked t get deeper into Africa.  Within 20 years, nearly all continents were placed under imperialistic rule. Who was Involved?  Great Britain  France  Germany  Italy  Portugal  Belgium  Spain (kind) Violent Affairs  Violence broke out multiple times when European nations looked to claim the same territory.  Germ Chancellor. Otto van Bismarck. Attempted to avert the possibility of violence against the European powers.  In 1884, Bismarck organized a conference in Berlin for the European nations. The Berlin Conference (1884-85)  The conference looked to set ground rules for future annexation of African territory by European Nations.  Annexation is the forcible acquisition and assertion of legal title over one state’s territory by another state, usually following military occupation of the territory.  From a distant perspective, it looked like it would reduce tensions among European nations and avert war.  At the heart of the meeting, these European countries negotiated their claims to African territory, made it official and then mapped their regions.  Furthermore, the leaders agreed to allow free trade among imperialized territory and some homework for negotiating future European claims in Africa was established. Further Path  After the conference, european powers continued to expand their claims in Africa so that by 1900. 90% of the African territory had been claimed. A Turn towards Colonization?  Upon the imperialization of African territory, European nations and little interest in African land unless it produced economic wealth.  Therefore, European governments put little effort and expertise into these imperialized regions.  In most cases, this emat a form of indirect rule. Thus, governing the natin without sufficient settlement and government from within the mother country. Some Exceptions  There were some exemptions through in Africa as colonization was a necessary for some regions i n Africa.  Some regions where diamonds and gold were present. Government looked to protectorate the regions and establish rule and settlement in the regions.  Protectorates: A state controlled and protected by another state for defense against aggression and other law violations. Would  Some examples include South Africa, Botswana, Zimbabwe and Congo. Conclusion  Although it may appear that the Berlin Conference averted war amid the African Scramble, imperialism eventually brought the world into worldwide conflict.  With the continued desire to create an empire by European nations. World War 1 would break out which can be linked to this quest at imperialism.
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lecture recording on 07 February 2025 at 14.30.32 PM

Events Leading Up to America's Entrance into World War II

Introduction to the Timeline

  • Initial Isolationism: The United States starts World War II in a stance of isolationism, similar to its stance in World War I.

  • Date of War Start: The war begins on September 1, 1939, with the invasion of Poland by Germany.

  • Significance of 1941: Focus on understanding the reasons behind U.S. involvement starting in 1941.

Historical Context Before 1939

Japan in the 1930s
  • Meiji Restoration: Japan's attempt to resist domination through westernization in the late 19th century.

  • Shift in Government: In the 1930s, militarists take control; they promote hyper-nationalism and racist ideologies claiming superiority over other Asian nations.

  • Expansion into China: Japan aims to expand its empire, particularly targeting China amidst its internal civil war.

China in the 1930s
  • Civil War: By the 1930s, Chinese factions include the Chinese Communist Party (led by Mao Zedong) and the Kuomintang (led by Chiang Kai-shek).

  • Chaos as Opportunity: Japan exploits this civil war to invade and occupy parts of China, starting with Manchuria in 1931.

International Reactions and U.S. Involvement

U.S. Isolationism and Response to Japan
  • Non-Intervention Stance: The U.S. initially opts to stay out of the conflict, considering it a European or Asian problem, not directly affecting them.

  • Relocation of the Pacific Fleet: Roosevelt moves the U.S. Pacific Fleet from San Diego to Hawaii to signal strength to Japan.

Germany's Rise Post-World War I
  • Weimar Republic Failures: The economic struggles and political instability of the Weimar Republic after the Treaty of Versailles leads to the rise of Hitler.

  • Hitler’s Strategy: Using propaganda and appeal; he rises to power by dismantling democracy from within, claiming the Chancellor's position in 1933.

  • Nazi Ideology: Centered on racial superiority, specifically the Aryan race, leading to systemic discrimination and violence against Jews and other groups.

Lead-up to World War II

  • Aggressive Expansion: Germany begins rearming and then violating the Treaty of Versailles as it seeks to expand its territory.

  • Munich Agreement: Appeasement strategy by Britain and France, led by Prime Minister Neville Chamberlain, to avoid war with Germany, believing they can placate Hitler.

Outbreak of War

  • Invasion of Poland: On September 1, 1939, Germany invades Poland, prompting Britain and France to declare war.

  • Expansion of Conflict: Other nations, including Japan, Germany, and Italy, form alliances, complicating the international situation.

Shift in American Attitudes

Prelude to U.S. Entry
  • America's Neutrality: Despite global events, the American public remains largely isolationist until 1940-1941 when Axis victories become overwhelming.

  • Lend-Lease Act (1941): The U.S. begins to supply Allied nations with weapons and resources, calling itself the "arsenal of democracy."

Japanese Aggression in Asia

  • Concerning Tactics in China: Reports of atrocities committed by Japanese troops in China lead to increased international concern.

  • Embargo on Japan: In response to Japan's actions in China, the U.S. implements an embargo, cutting off crucial resources, which Japan perceives as an act of war.

Pearl Harbor

  • Attack on December 7, 1941: Japan attacks Pearl Harbor, targeting the U.S. Pacific Fleet to incapacitate American military power in the Pacific.

  • Significance of Attack: Pearl Harbor marks the first direct attack on U.S. soil and galvanizes public support for entering the war.

  • U.S. Declaration of War: Following the attack on Pearl Harbor, the U.S. declares war on Japan, leading to its full involvement in World War II.

Events Leading Up to America's Entrance into World War II

Introduction to the Timeline

  • Initial Isolationism: The United States starts World War II in a stance of isolationism, echoing its approach from World War I, characterized by a reluctance to engage in European conflicts and a focus on domestic issues.

  • Date of War Start: The war begins on September 1, 1939, when Germany invades Poland, utilizing blitzkrieg tactics that combine fast-moving ground troops, tanks, and air support, overwhelming Polish defenses swiftly.

  • Significance of 1941: Understanding U.S. involvement in World War II starts in earnest in 1941, influenced largely by the Axis Powers' aggression and the shifting global landscape.

Historical Context Before 1939

Japan in the 1930s

  • Meiji Restoration: Japan undertakes the Meiji Restoration in the late 19th century, aiming to modernize its economy and military to resist colonization by Western powers.

  • Shift in Government: By the 1930s, Japan comes under militaristic rule, promoting hyper-nationalism and racial superiority ideologies, which justify imperial expansion in Asia.

  • Expansion into China: Japan aggressively expands into China during its civil war, viewing the conflict as an opportunity to establish dominance across Asia, driven by desires for resources and territory.

China in the 1930s

  • Civil War: By the 1930s, China is embroiled in a civil war between the Chinese Communist Party, led by Mao Zedong, and the Kuomintang, led by Chiang Kai-shek, leading to a fractured national landscape.

  • Chaos as Opportunity: Japan exploits the internal strife following its 1931 invasion of Manchuria, aiming to capture more territory and resources as both factions are weakened.

International Reactions and U.S. Involvement

U.S. Isolationism and Response to Japan

  • Non-Intervention Stance: Initially, the U.S. chooses non-intervention, viewing the conflict as largely European or Asian in nature, unworthy of American involvement, which is reflected in the Neutrality Acts passed during the late 1930s.

  • Relocation of the Pacific Fleet: In a strategic move, President Roosevelt shifts the U.S. Pacific Fleet from San Diego to Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, thereby signaling a posture of strength to Japan and preparing for eventual conflict.

Germany's Rise Post-World War I

  • Weimar Republic Failures: The post-World War I Weimar Republic faces destabilizing economic challenges, including hyperinflation, unemployment, and political extremism, creating fertile ground for radical ideologies.

  • Hitler’s Strategy: Adolf Hitler rises to power through the National Socialist German Workers' Party (Nazi Party), using propaganda and oratory to dismantle democratic structures, eventually becoming Chancellor in January 1933.

  • Nazi Ideology: Central to Nazi ideology is the belief in the racial superiority of the Aryan race, promoting nationalism that leads to aggressive expansionism and systemic discrimination against Jews, Romani people, and other minorities.

Lead-up to World War II

  • Aggressive Expansion: Germany begins rearming and further violating the Treaty of Versailles by the late 1930s, expanding its territory into the Rhineland, Austria, and Czechoslovakia without opposition.

  • Munich Agreement: Britain and France, under the policy of appeasement led by Prime Minister Neville Chamberlain, allow Hitler to annex parts of Czechoslovakia in hopes of avoiding war, demonstrating a grave miscalculation of Nazi ambitions.

Outbreak of War

  • Invasion of Poland: On September 1, 1939, Germany’s invasion of Poland leads to Britain and France declaring war on Germany just days later on September 3, marking the start of World War II.

  • Expansion of Conflict: The conflict quickly escalates as Japan, Germany, and Italy form the Axis Powers, establishing a trilateral military alliance that draws in numerous other nations.

Shift in American Attitudes

Prelude to U.S. Entry

  • America's Neutrality: Throughout 1939 to 1940, the American public largely holds isolationist views, but as Axis victories become increasingly apparent, the mood begins to shift toward supporting the Allies.

  • Lend-Lease Act (1941): In March 1941, the U.S. Congress passes the Lend-Lease Act to provide military aid to Allied nations, marking a significant shift from isolationism to supporting the Allies, with FDR heralding the U.S. as the "arsenal of democracy."

Japanese Aggression in Asia

  • Concerning Tactics in China: Reports of brutalities committed by Japanese forces in China, including massacres and the use of chemical weapons, intensify international scrutiny and outrage.

  • Embargo on Japan: In response to Japan's aggressive actions, the U.S. imposes an embargo on vital resources, particularly oil and scrap metal, leading Japan to perceive this as a direct threat and an act of war.

Pearl Harbor

  • Attack on December 7, 1941: Japan launches a surprise aerial attack on Pearl Harbor, resulting in significant loss of life and damage to the U.S. Pacific Fleet, aiming to cripple American naval power in the Pacific.

  • Significance of Attack: This attack marks the first direct hostile action against the U.S. and drastically alters public opinion, galvanizing support for entry into the war.

  • U.S. Declaration of War: Following the attack on Pearl Harbor, the U.S. formally declares war on Japan on December 8, 1941, leading to full-scale American involvement in World War II and paving the way for future engagements against Axis powers.