American Isolationists DBQ

When WWII first began in 1939, the United States was hesitant to get involved. During this time, many Americans were Isolationists, believing the United States should refrain from intervening with international conflicts. Isolationism led to the passing of the Neutrality Acts, which outlawed the sale or loan of arms to nations at war. However, when Japan attacked Pearl Harbor on 7 December 1941, it was clear the American Isolationist debate was over. Not long after the attack on Pearl Harbor, the United States was at war with the Axis Powers, made up of Germany, Italy, and Japan. To contribute to the war effort, Americans changed their lives economically, politically, and socially.

To contribute to the war effort, Americans changed their lives economically. As a result of shortages due to the war, a system of rationing was established. Rationing deeply affected Americans since almost everything was rationed, including
Prior to the war, men worked while the women stayed at home. However, as men went to fight in the military, women joined the workforce (Doc 3). Women found themselves working in nontraditional jobs like in factories or industries to produce supplies for the war (Doc 9). Although women were later replaced in the workplace, when men came back from fighting the war, women were able to take steps toward social equality. Women also joined the military and were crucial in the battlefield. Women worked as nurses, repaired airplanes, served as radio operators, flew aircrafts, and some even served near the front lines. Apart from providing women with opportunities, WWII also provided opportunities for African Americans. Although African-Americans remained segregated during WWII, they were able to defy biases and serve as honorable servicemen and servicewomen in the military. During the war, the United States utilized all its greatest assets, from women and African