History of the American People since 1877

The Second World War Part 2


Listen Later

In this lecture, Dr. Totten argues Americans fought a two-year undeclared war in the Battle of the Atlantic against Nazi Germany, as the U.S. attempted to ship supplies to the allies. With the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor, the U.S. entered the conflict, becoming the "arsenal of democracy." As with most wars, women were critical to the war effort, and over 350,000 served in various branches of the armed forces. LGBQT individuals also volunteered in great numbers, serving honorably, despite horrific repression from the civil-military leadership. The Second World War provided African Americans with the opportunity to serve in defense industries, which greatly increased their wealth, though they were still discriminated against and placed into the most menial jobs. Many whites and blacks learned to get along, though race riots did erupt throughout the country in regards to housing and public facilities. African Americans, Japanese-Americans, and Native Americans served honorably in the war, despite the repression they faced at home. Blacks emphasized the "Double V" campaign to beat fascism abroad and racism at home. As a result, the Civil Rights Movement was further bolstered, directly leading to the protest movements of the 1950s. While poor whites and blacks served, Mexicans were encouraged to come to the United States to work on American farms until, though many were later sent back in the 1950s. Lastly, the U.S. embarked on one final piece of New Deal legislation, the G.I. Bill, which gave white veterans low interest loans, technical or college education, and other benefits that built the suburbs and white middle class. However, these benefits were denied to non-white veterans, and when combined with the absence of social security, helps explain the wealth gap between communities to this day.



Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/history-of-the-american-people-since-1877/donations
...more
View all episodesView all episodes
Download on the App Store

History of the American People since 1877By Eric Paul Totten

  • 4.4
  • 4.4
  • 4.4
  • 4.4
  • 4.4

4.4

8 ratings