Tiger, Tiger, Tiger The US entry into WW2

OVERVIEW In this lesson you will examine: American isolationism vs. involvement Growing tensions between Japan and the US Reasons and consequences for the attack on Pearl Harbor

Isolation vs. involvement Despite low public support for war, FDR pushed America towards participation: 1939 “Cash and Carry” bill 1940 “destroyers for bases” agreement 1940 Selective Training and Service Act 1941 Lend-Lease Act 1941 Atlantic Charter

Tensions Japan’s war against China and its attempts at expansion threatened US interests in Asia. The US responded: Sept 1940: Ban on exports of steel and scrap metal to Japan July 1941: Oil embargo against Japan

The decision for war With the oil embargo, Japan believed that conflict with the US was inevitable and made preparations on two fronts: “I can run wild for six months … after that, I have no expectation of success.“ Admiral Yamamoto Military To strike hard and fast against US forces and capture as much territory as possible – to avoid a prolonged war Diplomatic To quickly negotiate a settlement from a position of strength once enough territory had been captured

“Yesterday, December 7, 1941 -- a date which will live in infamy -- the United States of America was suddenly and deliberately attacked by naval and air forces of the Empire of Japan. The United States was at peace with that Nation and, at the solicitation of Japan, was still in conversation with its Government and its Emperor looking toward the maintenance of peace in the Pacific…”

“A date which will live in infamy” On Dec 7, 1941, Japanese aircraft based from carriers attacked the US fleet stationed in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. The US lost all capital ships in the Pacific except its aircraft carriers Japan had not formally declared war which galvanized American public opinion Germany and Italy declared war on the United States on Dec 11, 1941

SUMMARY QUESTIONS In what ways did FDR support the Allies without direct confrontation against the Axis powers? How did Japan react to American attempts to limit their expansion? How was the attack on Pearl Harbor the beginning of defeat for the Axis powers?