Impact of WW2

Question 1

How did Roosevelt initially response to WW2?

Answer 1

Abided by the Neutrality Act and stated America would not intervene in the war but supported the UK through a ‘cash and carry’ basis where Britain didn’t get supplies through credit

Question 2

What were 2 ways in which FDR began to circumvent the Neutrality Act?

Answer 2

1) A ‘lend-lease’ scheme which brought in $51 Billion
2) A ‘destroyers-for-bases’ deal which gave 50 destroyers to the UK in-exchange for access to British military bases

Question 3

How did the war contribute to the economy overall?

Answer 3

The US had produced more than $47 Billion worth of goods with industry profits rising from $17 Million in 1940 to $28 Million in 1943

Question 4

How many people fought and died in the war overall?

Answer 4

16 million fought in the war, with 400,000 dying and 600,000 wounded

Question 5

How did WW2 transform foreign policy post war?

Answer 5

1) Led to the formation of the Truman Doctrine to contain the USSR’s growing power and influence

2) Led to a rapid arms race and nuclear defences being established such as with the Federal Defence Administration giving advice on how to deal with a potential nuclear attack