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Period: to
(1933-1941)
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US moves towards Neutrality
In the United States, the first Neutrality Acts are passed authorizing the president to deny American firms the right to sell or ship munitions to belligerent nations. The Neutrality Acts are later expanded in 1936. Beginning in 1935 and continuing until 1938, Poland begins to create a Jewish policy modeled after that of Nazi Germany. -
FDR Quarantine Speech
FDR's Quarantine Speech calls for international cooperation against aggression -
FDR makes plans for defense
For the first time in his annual address to Congress, FDR proposes no domestic reforms but instead stresses the danger posed to democracy and international peace by the forces of aggression. Later in the month, the United States budget shows increased spending on national defense. -
US Neutrality
The United States declares its neutrality. -
Possibilities of an Atomic Bomb arise
Albert Einstein and others inform FDR of the possibility of creating an atomic bomb. -
US moves towards involvement with the Allies
The United States Congress amends the Neutrality Acts to favor Britain and France, lifting the embargo and authorizing cash & carry. -
US pulls out of Depression and moves toward war
In the United States, the Office of Production Management is set up to coordinate defense manufacturing and supply material aid to Great Britain. Defense manufacturing will eventually invigorate the United States economy by employing many previously unemployed workers, including an increasing number of women, coining the phrase Rosie the Riveter. -
Roosevelt hints at Involvement
During a Fireside Chat, FDR declares that the U.S. should become an "arsenal of democracy" against the Axis threat. -
US leans toward aiding the Allies
FDR signs Lend-Lease Bill. -
Attack on Pearl Harbor
Japan bomb US naval base sparking anger in the states -
US declares war on Japan
Following the attack on Pearl Harbor, the US declared war on Japan -
US becomes large help for the Allies
United States institutes extended military conscription for men ages 20-44.