WWII Impact on African Americans Matt S. Grace M. Nathan P. Grant L. Mike S. Jack M.

Key Terms Double V Campaign: campaign in which black leaders called for all citizens to fight against racism by seeking a “double victory”- victory for democracy at home and abroad Tuskegee Airmen: A group of Army Air Corps pilots and support crews, established in 1941 as the first black combat unit

Hardships ★ Military camps segregated blacks and whites in places such as mess halls and movie theaters ★ The navy limited African Americans to cooking, cleaning rooms, and shining shoes.

Hardships (cont.) ➔ African Americans faced white backlash, race riots broke out in many cities across the country as black migrants competed with white residents for housing and jobs ➔ African Americans faced other hardships such as lack of housing, social services, and ongoing discrimination

Opportunities The African Americans fought two victories such as the double v campaign which tried to get racism out of Germany and the U.S. The National Urban League tried to oppose discrimination, they faught the integrate labor unions, and pushed federal officials to ensure equal opportunity.

Opportunities (cont.) ❖ During WWII, African Americans pressed the government to end military discrimination. Over time, the armed services gave more black soldiers the opportunity to engage in combat and to become officers. ❖ African Americans also proved they could handle the most demanding assignments in the war. The group of fighters that proved this were known as the Tuskegee Airmen. They served as bomber escorts, engaging in direct combat with german fighter planes. They were known for their bravery and skill; they never lost a bomber to enemy planes

Conclusion African Americans faced hardships in many different ways during World War II. Whether they were risking their lives on the battlefield, or living daily lives in their country, they faced racism and segregation. However, they still were able to strive in making opportunities such as becoming official officers and surviving the toughest parts of the war. In the end, with the help of the National Urban League, African Americans achieved two victories: the double v campaign which tried to get racism out of Germany, and the U.S. that is shaping the history of America as we speak.