World War II was one of the most devastating conflicts in human history—more than 60 million people were dead by the time it was all over in 1945. It was big, it was scary, and it's also remembered as being good.
Not because of all the people who died, of course, but for all the things it did.
Millions of people were freed from the oppressive government of Adolf Hitler, and it gave the American economy a boost as industry started to produce tanks and guns and other weapons necessary to win. It was an incredibly dangerous time in our history, but FDR was right when he says in "The Arsenal of Democracy" that the war and those who fought in it would be remembered as the gallant heroes of the 20th century.
Questions About War
- Throughout his speech, FDR never mentions any of the Axis leaders by name. Why do you think that is?
- Why do you think World War II is constantly referred to as "the last good war?" Can a war every really be classified as good?
- Take a look at the third quote in this section of the module. What did FDR attend to accomplish by naming the various countries Germany had conquered? Do you think it was effective?
- If not for the attacks on Pearl Harbor, do you believe the United States would've gotten involved in World War II?
Chew on This
World War II was the driving force that pushed the United States and the rest of the world out of the Great Depression.
In his speech, FDR said failure to act could turn the U.S. into a militaristic nation with a war economy, but some people argue American policy has centered on war ever since the 1940s.