What political system rose in Europe leading up to WWII?
Fascism- the ruling of a country by extreme nationalism, militarism, and racism under a dictator with full power over its citizens.
What did the Neutrality Acts (1930s) prohibit?
Trading weapons with countries at war.
In an attempt to avoid the same shipping mistakes made during WWI.
(In reponse to the rise of fascism in Europe)
What was the primary objective of U.S. isolationism and the Neutrality Acts?
Avoid involvement in Asian and European conflicts.
What was the goal of Adolf Hitler and Nazi Germany in the 1930s?
- Eliminate political opposition and make Germany the dominant power in Europe. (Primary)
- Overturn the Treaty of Versallies.
- Establish a new racial order with the ethnically “pure” (Aryan) race at the top, and the extermination of the Jewish Population.
How did U.S. isolationism lead to WWII?
By allowing for Axis Powers to aggressively and rapidly expand in Europe and Asia.
What policy did Great Britain and France follow toward Germany?
Appeasement- attempt to avoid war with Germany at all costs by allowing for them to expand territory.
What was the Munich Agreement?
An agreement between Germany, France, and Great Britain that allowed for Hitler to annex Czechoslovakia’s borderland (Sudetenland).
The Cash and Carry policy (1939) allowed for…
Allied nations to purchase war materials with immediate cash payment and self-transport.
Why did FDR establish the Cash and Carry policy?
It was a way to support Allied Powers against threat from the Axis Powers without direct involvement, maintaining neutrality.
The Lend-Lease Act (1941) allowed for…
The U.S. to lend, lease, or sell war materials to any nation deemed vital for U.S. defense without upfront payment.
What was the purpose of the Lend-Lease Act?
To help U.S. Allies by sending equipment and materials without formally declaring war.
How did the Lend-Lease Act signal a change in U.S. policy?
It showed a shift from neutrality towards intervention.
What is the main difference between Cash and Carry policy and the Lend-Lease Act?
Cash and Carry required upfront payment, while the Lend-Lease Act did not.
How did Japan’s invasion of China affect U.S.-Japan relations?
It increased tensions between the U.S. and Japan.
