Neutrality to WW2 Flashcards
Why did Americans prefer neutrality?
The sacrifices of WW1 seemed pointless, too much unpaid debt, so many supported isolationism.
What did the neutrality act of 1935 state?
It was illegal to sell arms to any country at war.
Explain the findings of the Nye committee.
Found that huge profits were made during WW1 by businesses, & that they influenced the decision for the US to go to war.
What philosophy did FDR support: isolationism or internationalism?
FDR believed in Internationalism, that is focus on trade and prosperity will be created
How was the neutrality act of 1939 different from other neutrality acts?
It permitted the sale of weapons but only on a “cash & carry “ basis
What did the Fight for Freedom committee focus on?
They wanted the repeal of neutrality laws & stronger actions against Germany.
What document did Britain & the U.S create in August 1941?
The Atlantic Charter, where both nations were committed to a postwar world of democracy.
What was the “Lend lease Act” ?
It allowed the US to lend or lease arms to any country VITAL to the defense of the US.
Name 2 countries that benefited from the US’s Lend lease act.
Great Britain & the Soviet union
Why are strategic materials important?
Items need to fight a war
Why did the country of Japan sign an alliance with Germany & Italy?
The US had restricted sale of strategic materials (airplane fuel & scrap iron)
Was Japan’s attack on the US a “surprise attack?”
Yes, they did not believe Japan would attack Hawaii due to the distance & in a Japanese message decoded, Hawaii was not mentioned. So they did not believe there would be an attack against Japan.
When did Japan attack the U.S?
On December 7, 1941
When did the US declare was on Japan?
The next day after the attack Dec 8th
Which other countries declared war on the U.S at this time?
Germany & Italy
