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The focus of this unit is to use the theme of conflict and change to show how the United States moved from a policy of isolationism to becoming a dominant economic, military, and diplomatic world power. The students will use the theme of individuals, groups, and institutions to understand how individual actions can affect a country and the consequences it may cause. It will also explore how war and changing roles can spark social changes in American society. Finally, students will understand how location and production, distribution, and consumption affects businesses and American interests during times of war.
SS5H4 Explain America’s involvement in World War II.
a. Describe German aggression in Europe and Japanese aggression in Asia.
I can identify Germany and Japan as countries involved in World War II. (Knowledge)
I can describe German aggression in Europe as it relates to World War II. (Knowledge)
I can describe Japanese aggression in Asia as it relates to World War II. (Knowledge)
World War II involved combatants from most of the world’s nations and was considered the deadliest war in history. Around 85 million military and civilians died as a result. The end finally came on Sept. 2, 1945, when Japanese officials signed the surrender documents aboard the battleship USS Missouri at Tokyo Bay, Japan.
World War II, the largest and deadliest conflict in human history, involved more than 50 nations and was fought on land, sea and air in nearly every part of the world. Also known as the Second World War, it was caused in part by the economic crisis of the Great Depression and by political tensions left unresolved following the end of World War I.
German aggression in Europe and Japanese aggression in Asia.
Japan invaded China to gain natural resources.
Japan signed an agreement to align themselves with Germany and Italy as an Axis Power.
Germany seized territory lost during World War I.
In World War II, the three great Allied powers—Great Britain, the United States, and the Soviet Union—formed a Grand Alliance that was the key to victory. But the alliance partners did not share common political aims, and did not always agree on how the war should be fought.
From left, Soviet leader Joseph Stalin, U.S. President Franklin D. Roosevelt, and British Prime Minister Winston Churchill meet at the historic Tehran Conference in Iran on November 28, 1943.
August, 1939 - The Russians and the Germans sign a non-aggression pact. Adolf Hitler and Joseph Stalin agree not to invade each other's borders. The two leaders secretly plan to divide Poland and other parts of Eastern Europe between them.
This ultra-nationalism arose in Japan at the same time that similar movements were taking hold in the recently unified European nations of Italy and Germany, where they would develop into Fascism and Nazism. Each of these three countries felt threatened by the established imperial powers of Europe, and each responded with assertions of its own people's inherent superiority. When World War II broke out, Japan, Germany, and Italy would ally themselves as the Axis Powers. Each would also act ruthlessly against what it considered to be lesser peoples.
As an island, Japan needed natural resources of oil, rubber, and iron ore. To obtain these materials they invaded and occupied the Chinese province of Manchuria in 1931, and they ultimately launched a full-scale war against China in 1937. Japan continued to gain colonies by occupying Vietnam in 1940, and then signing an agreement to align themselves with Italy and Germany as an Axis Power. Militarism, alliances, and imperialism were the forces behind Japan’s aggression in the Pacific.
Japan's Territorial Expansion 1931-1942
Japan's Territorial Expansion 1931-1942
Beginning in the 1920’s, Japan decided to expand its territory in Southeast Asia. Many in the military saw the invasion of other territories as the best way to solve this problem. By the late 1930’s, it controlled most of the Chinese coast and was determined to conquer other countries as well.
b. Describe major events in the war in both Europe and the Pacific; include Pearl Harbor, Iwo Jima, D-Day, VE and VJ Days, and the Holocaust.
I can identify Pearl Harbor as a major event of World War II in the Pacific and I can describe how the attack on Pearl Harbor contributed to America's involvement in World War II. (Knowledge)
I can identify the Battle of Iwo Jima and can describe how the Battle of Iwo Jima was a major event in the Pacific during World War II. (Knowledge)
I can identify D-Day and can describe how D-Day was a major event in Europe during World War II. (Knowledge)
I can identify VE Day and can describe how VE Day was a major American and European event during World War II. (Knowledge)
I can identify VJ Day and can describe how VJ Day was a major American and Pacific event during World War II. (Knowledge)
I can identify the Holocaust and can describe how the Holocaust was a major event in Europe during World War II. (Knowledge)
The two main theaters were called the European Theater and the Pacific Theater. To fight in these two theaters, different combat plans were designed. In Europe, the Allies launched attacks from Great Britain, Africa, and the Soviet Union. In the Pacific, the technique of Island Hopping was used to defeat Japan.
Japan attacked the United States Naval base at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, on December 7, 1941. This surprise attack by Japan resulted in a change in public opinion in the United States from an isolationist stance into full-out participation in the war. Congress declared war against Japan and the other Axis powers of Germany, Italy, and Japan.
When U. S. Marines captured the Japanese island of Iwo Jima in March of 1945, it was at a great cost of human life. American soldiers took this island away from the Japanese, robbing them of an important strategic advantage. The island was important as a location for Japanese planes to refuel and to resupply troops stationed on other islands. For the United States, its capture was also beneficial because it could be used as a staging area for attacks on Japan.
On June 6, 1944, a combined force of American and British soldiers landed on the beaches of Normandy, France. This attack was necessary for the retaking of France from Germany and was seen by military leaders as essential to drive the German military back to Germany and ultimately defeat them. This three-day battle was costly in terms of life, but was afterward considered a major turning point in the war in Europe.
May 8, 1945, is celebrated as V-E or Victory in Europe Day. In 1945, Allied forces defeated Germany, which ended most conflict in the European theatre. As the war ended in Europe, the full horror of the Holocaust and the devastating effect on the Jewish people was discovered by the world.
August 14, 1945, is considered V-J or Victory over Japan Day, when Japan agreed to the Allies’ terms of surrender. This surrender followed the dropping of atomic bombs by the U.S. on the Japanese cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. For some, the Japanese surrender came as a surprise, because many believed that Japan would hold out as long as possible.
The Holocaust was the “systematic, state-sponsored persecution”, and murder of approximately six million Jews, and about three million others, by Nazis during World War II. Under the leadership of Adolph Hitler, laws and policies were enacted to persecute Jews, minorities, and political groups that were determined to be “undesirable.” Initially these groups had their rights limited, property seized, and liberties curtailed. Over time, this persecution evolved into genocide where these groups were murdered due to their religion, ethnicity, political beliefs, or behaviors.
U.S. Troops wading through water and Nazi gunfire A U.S. landing craft approaches Omaha Beach during the D-Day invasion in Normandy, France on June 6, 1944.
"Into the Jaws of Death"
"Into the Jaws of Death"
President Franklin D. Roosevelt signs the declaration of war against Japan, Dec. 8, 1941.
D-Day Invasion
D-Day Invasion
U.S. Gen. Dwight D. Eisenhower gives instructions to paratroopers in England in preparation for the imminent D-Day invasion on June 6, 1944.
Battle of Iwo Jima
Battle of Iwo Jima
Five U.S. Marines and one sailor raise an American flag over Mount Suribabachi during the Battle of Iwo Jima on February 23, 1945. One of the fiercest battles of the war, it took 100,000 US soldiers nearly a month to defeat a Japanese force of 25,000.
Japan's Surrender
Japan's Surrender
Japanese Foreign Minister Mamoru Shigemitsu signs the Instrument of Surrender on behalf of the Japanese Government, on board the USS Missouri on September 2, 1945 as Lt. Gen. Richard K. Sutherland, U.S. Army, watches from the opposite side of the table.
In celebration of Japan's surrender, a U.S. Navy sailor kisses a women during festivities in New York City on August 14, 1945.
c. Discuss President Truman’s decision to drop the atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki.
I can identify Harry Truman and discuss his role as president during World War II. (Knowledge)
I can identify Hiroshima and Nagasaki as cities in Japan. (Knowledge)
I can explain President Truman's decision to drop the atomic bomb and can discuss President Truman's decision(s) to drop the atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki during World War II. (Reasoning)
As President, Truman made some of the most crucial decisions in history. Soon after V-E Day, the war against Japan had reached its final stage. An urgent plea to Japan to surrender was rejected; Japan refused to surrender unconditionally. Truman, after consultations with his advisers, ordered atomic bombs dropped on cities devoted to war work. Two were Hiroshima and Nagasaki. Japanese surrender quickly followed.
Hiroshima, Japan
Hiroshima, Japan
The devastated remains of Hiroshima, Japan just days after U.S. forces dropped an atomic bomb on the city, killing upwards of 140,000. On August 6, 1945, a US plane called the Enola Gay dropped an atomic bomb on the city.
Nagasaki, Japan
Nagasaki, Japan
The atomic bombing of Nagasaki, Japan by the U.S. on August 9, 1945.
Here, marking the final turning point of WII, the atomic bomb explodes over Nagasaki, August 8, 1945. Another had been dropped on Hiroshima on August 6. A few days later, Japan surrendered. Hirohito spoke briefly to the Japanese people over the radio to announce the surrender. This was the first time his astonished subjects had heard the voice of their Emperor.
d. Identify Roosevelt, Stalin, Churchill, Hirohito, Truman, Mussolini, and Hitler.
I can identify Franklin D. Roosevelt. (Knowledge)
I can identify Joseph Stalin. (Knowledge)
I can identify Winston Churchill. (Knowledge)
I can identify Emperor Hirohito. (Knowledge)
I can identify Harry Truman. (Knowledge)
I can identify Benito Mussolini. (Knowledge)
I can identify Adolf Hitler. (Knowledge)
Franklin Delano Roosevelt (President of the United States, 1932-45): After guiding the United States through the Great Depression and creating the New Deal, President Roosevelt’s approval was high among many Americans. As war became inevitable, he hesitated to involve the United States in another destructive war, until the attack on Pearl Harbor. The surprise attack thrust the United States into the conflict. Roosevelt, reelected to his third and fourth terms during World War II, became the face of American resolve during this conflict.
Joseph Stalin (Premier of the Soviet Union, c. 1929-53): Stalin’s successful rise to power in the Communist Party of the Soviet Union led to his virtual dictatorship by the late 1920s. Initially in an alliance with Nazi Germany, Stalin joined the Allies following Germany’s betrayal and invasion of the Soviet Union. Stalin utilized the harsh winter climate of his country in the Battle for Stalingrad to the defeat German’s forces. This he did by drawing German troops into the country, where he cut off German supply lines.
Winston Churchill, the Prime Minister of Great Britain, during WWII from 1940-45: one of the great statesmen of the 20th century. He skillfully maneuvered public opinion and utilized Great Britain’s Navy and ground troops to lead Great Britain through World War II. With his country under constant bombardment by air from Germany during the Battle for Britain, Winston Churchill sought to support the citizens of his country as well as oppose the Axis Powers.
Hirohito (Emperor of Japan, 1926-89): Hirohito’s role in World War II has been debated in recent years. While certainly unable to stop members of his government who were anxious to demonstrate Japan’s military superiority, Hirohito was willing to sacrifice lives to expand Japan’s empire. During this time emperors were viewed as “more than human,” and Hirohito expected his subjects to sacrifice their lives for their country if it was necessary. Japanese soldiers were expected to fight to the death rather than surrender. In fact, it took the use of atomic weapons to force the Japanese military and Hirohito to surrender.
Harry S Truman (President of the United States, 1945-1953): Harry S. Truman, Vice-President, in 1945 became president with the sudden death of President Roosevelt (FDR). The war in Europe was close to an end, but the conflict with Japan continued. Utilizing the foreign policy and plans established by Roosevelt, Truman ordered the use of atomic weapons against Japan. This led to Japan’s surrender. Truman also helped to create the United Nations in June of 1945. This was because he believed that diplomacy was the route by which future conflict could be prevented.
Adolf Hitler (Chancellor of Germany, 1933-45): In the 1930’s Germany faced economic and political upheaval that was caused by the terms of the Treaty of Versailles, and by the general economic depression that affected much of the world. Promising the people of Germany jobs, and national pride, Adolf Hitler and the Nazi party rose to power. Once the Nazi party gained control of the government, Hitler became Germany’s leader. He used his position as Chancellor to concentrate all political power, and ultimately to seize power as a dictator. Once he had control, laws and policies were instituted to restrict the life of Jews and other minority groups. Ultimately, his ambitions led him to invade other countries, beginning with Poland. The restrictions placed on Jews and others eventually led to large-scale violence and genocide of Jews and others in concentration camps and throughout his territories.
Benito Mussolini (Premier of Italy, 1922-43/45): Benito Mussolini, Italy’s Fascist dictator during World War II, was an ally of German, and Japan. As a leader, he utilized Italy’s military to try and re-establish Italy as a great European power.
e. Describe the effects of rationing and the changing role of women and African Americans or Blacks; include “Rosie the Riveter” and the Tuskegee Airmen.
I can define rationing and describe its effect on Americans during World War II. (Knowledge)
I can identify Rosie the Riveter. (Knowledge)
I can explain how the role of women changed during World War II and I can describe the effects of the change. (Reasoning)
I can identify the Tuskegee Airmen. (Knowledge)
I can explain how the role of African Americans or Blacks changed during World War II and I can describe the effects of the change. (Reasoning)
World War II put a heavy burden on US supplies of basic materials like food, shoes, metal, paper, and rubber. The Army and Navy were growing, as was the nation’s effort to aid its allies overseas. Civilians still needed these materials for consumer goods as well. To meet this surging demand, the federal government took steps to conserve crucial supplies, including establishing a rationing system that impacted virtually every family in the United States. Citizens bought more fresh fruits and vegetables, than meat, during WWII., because the basic foods and meats were being rationed. The public felt it was important for everyone to make sacrifices for the war effort. Because of rationing, the government was able to secure necessary war supplies.
During times of resource shortage, governments institute rationing. Rationing was put into place by the United States government during World War II because many supplies were necessary for the war, or were simply unavailable due to shipping or production, difficulties. Rationing was established to attempt to fairly distribute limited supplies. Individuals, families, and businesses were allotted set amounts of rationed goods. A card, coin, or stamp indicated how much of an item they could purchase. When an individual reached their limits they could not purchase more goods until they were given new ration cards. Examples of common goods that were rationed were rubber, sugar, butter, gasoline, and coffee.
"Rose the Riveter" is associated with encouraging women to work for the war effort at factories on the "homefront."
Rosie the Riveter
Rosie the Riveter
As American men found themselves serving overseas and American industry increased production to build supplies needed for the war, it became apparent that new labor sources were necessary. Many women went to work in factory jobs that had formerly been closed to them, promoted in part by government propaganda. One well-known figure who symbolized proud hard-working, independent American women was Rosie the Riveter. In posters and advertisements, Rosie the Riveter encouraged women to become “Rosies,” and help support their families and country with war work.
Tuskegee Airmen
Tuskegee Airmen
African-Americans or Blacks also found themselves recruited for factory and other jobs needed for the war effort. Factory jobs continued to attract migrants from rural areas, and often allowed African Americans or Blacks to reach new levels of job success. In addition, the United States military opened access to military careers that had been denied them earlier. One example of this was the Tuskegee Airmen. The first African American or Black pilots in American military history, the Tuskegee Airmen, began training in Tuskegee, Alabama, in 1940. From there, this group of pilots and support personnel trained and served during World War II. They proved to be skilled pilots and served bravely in numerous military engagements. Teachers will want to note that returning American servicemen reclaimed many industrial jobs following the war, and the surge in women in the workforce did not continue in the post-war years. Equally, some African-Americans found themselves unemployed with the return White servicemen. Many advancements proved to be short-lived.
Eleanor Roosevelt
Eleanor Roosevelt
Eleanor Roosevelt, First Lady and wife of Franklin Delano Roosevelt, was an advocate for civil rights for women, African Americans or Blacks , and the under-privileged. As First Lady, she traveled throughout the United States where she met with American citizens to discuss their daily struggles and needs. She used her influence with President Roosevelt to help shape New Deal Legislation to assist them during the Great Depression. As First Lady during World War II, she created a victory garden on the White House Lawn and instituted the same food and gas rationing system at the White House that was instituted in households across the United States. She encouraged volunteers to assist the country and advocated for women to hold jobs traditionally held by men, who were now fighting overseas. Her desire to advocate for human rights continued after World War II when in 1946 she was appointed by President Truman to head the United Nations Human Rights Commission. In this capacity, she helped draft the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. This document identified basic human rights that were universally agreed upon and protected by members of the United Nations.
League of Nations
League of Nations
The failure of the League of Nations resulted in the creation of the United Nations. The United Nations (UN), named by President Franklin Roosevelt, originated with the Allied nations of World War II. In 1945, fifty countries came together to sign an agreement calling for dialogue and diplomacy when issues of international conflict arose. The United Nations was to act as “an international organization designed to end war and promote peace, justice and better living for all mankind.” The United States played a key role in the conferences that created the alliance that became the United Nations, and the United States became one of the leading countries within the UN.
United Nations
United Nations
Formed in October, 1945, its purpose was to maintain peace between countries, make sure nations obeyed international law, and protect human rights. Roosevelt felt the development of the UN was important for the United States to be in a position of international leadership, along with other major world powers, and that the United Nations helped solidify this role. In addition, Roosevelt saw one of the main functions of the United Nations as the prevention of another World War after the failure of the League of Nations.
The Decision to Drop the Atomic Bomb
The Decision to Drop the Atomic Bomb
After the surrender of Germany and V-E day, many American citizens expected the war with Japan to last longer, and that they expected that a land invasion of Japan would be required. President Truman realized that huge numbers of casualties were likely for both sides if this occurred. What few Americans realized at the time was that the United States was in the process of creating a new weapon that was so powerful that it could force Japan to surrender. This atomic bomb, was developed secretly during 1939-1940 by a group of scientists under a program called the Manhattan Project. Truman knew that if he decided to use the atomic bombs to prevent a land war in Japan, he would be sacrificing the lives of Japanese citizens, but he felt this was warranted by the fact that this would save the lives of many Allied troops and end the war quickly. Historians still have lively debates over Truman’s decision to drop the atomic bombs.
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