Unit 4:

World War II and The Holocaust

Unit Goals

Guiding Questions

- Students will demonstrate an understanding of the key events, themes, and developments in modern U.S. history from 1938-1945.
- Students will analyze primary and secondary sources to interpret historical events and draw connections between them.
- Students will critically evaluate the impact of major social, political, economic, and cultural changes in modern U.S. history during World War II.
- Students will compare and contrast different historical perspectives on significant events, movements, and figures.
- Students will effectively synthesize information gathered from multiple sources to support their historical interpretations and arguments.
- Students will communicate their historical understanding and analysis effectively through oral presentations, written essays, and/or multimedia projects.
- Students will engage in respectful and constructive discussions with peers, sharing and defending their interpretations of historical events and themes.
- Students will explore the global context of modern U.S. history, including America's role in international conflicts, alliances, and diplomatic relations.
- Students will examine the impact of globalization on U.S. society and the interconnectedness of global events with domestic developments.
- Students will reflect on the ways in which historical events have shaped contemporary issues and debates in American society.
- Students will explore their roles as informed and active citizens, understanding the importance of civic participation and social responsibility in a democratic society.
- Students will develop skills in historical inquiry, asking meaningful questions about the past and seeking evidence-based answers.

What is the appropriate role of the United States in global affairs?
Should President Truman have dropped the Atomic Bombs?

Standards Alignment

His.1.US.b. Evaluate various American responses to the Holocaust while recognizing the history of antisemitism in both historical and contemporary contexts (e.g., Nuremberg Trials).

US.His.1.c. Evaluate the role of economic and political developments that created the conditions leading to WWII and the Holocaust (e.g., Great Depression, nationalism, militarism).

US.His.1.d. Evaluate how the demand for labor on homefront in World War II shaped gender roles (e.g., mobilization, victory gardens, rationing, War Production Board).

US.His.1.e. Evaluate the United States government’s complex responses to the Holocaust while recognizing the history of antisemitism in both historical and contemporary contexts (e.g., Voyage of the St. Louis, lack of response to the Final Solution, Nuremberg Trials).

His.14.US.c. Analyze the multiple and complex causes and effects of the nuclear age (e.g., Manhattan Project).

US.His.16.c. Develop arguments about the juxtaposition between the United States’ founding ideals and actions of the Federal government during World War II using evidence from multiple relevant sources (e.g., Japanese-American Internment, Holocaust intervention, Braceros Program, Fair Employment Practices Act, segregated regiments, women in the military).

His.16.US.c. Develop arguments about key events and issues during World War II using evidence from multiple relevant historical sources (e.g., gender and sexuality, home front, internment, military actions, segregation).

His.16.US.d. Describe the achievements and contributions of diverse individuals and groups during World War II using evidence from historical sources (e.g., home front, warfront).