Chapter Overview

The neglected and poorly organized League of Nations formed after the Great War was ineffectual at stopping a similar pattern of world polarization that would explode in 1933 as Nazi Germany began a lengthy program of invasion, offensive war, and mass murder throughout Europe. President Roosevelt appealed to Americans of all races for patriotic efforts to turn the tide of Nazism, and African Americans responded with their usual dedication despite ongoing racism at home. In contrast to World War I, World War II found African Americans much more vocal and skeptical about an Allied victory that might include more equality for their race. Blacks criticized the racism inherent in the American military, especially the entrenched tradition of using African Americans for only menial labor. Indeed, throughout the war, African American media, professional organizations, and civil rights groups sought to hold elected politicians to their promises of fair treatment of the races using influential black voting blocks in the North.

Learning Objectives

After reading this chapter you should understand the following:

• The historical context of World War II as a by-product of the failed League of Nations, through an attempted isolation stance shattered by the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor
• The nature of African American military service in World War II
• The political scene in America during the war and how African Americans were becoming more adept at using their vote for influence and change