Major Battles in WWII

The Battle of Britain was an air campaign between the Luftwaffe, or German Air Force, and the United Kingdom that took place in 1940 during World War II. The Battle of Britain remains one of the most famous battles of World War II because it was the first operation to be fought entirely by air forces. The battle took place after Germany had taken over Blitzkrieg, and Britain had evacuated Dunkirk and surrendered in France. In order for Germany to advance they attempted to control the English Channel in Operation Sea Lion. Throughout the entire fight Britain was outnumbered and out skilled although they had a number of advantages. RADAR, the Royal Observer Corps, and the ability to land for fuel are all reasons for Britain’s victory over Germany. By the end of the battle there were 966 casualties for the British and 2,698 for the Germans. In conclusion the Battle of Britain was an essential victory for Britain and had potential severely changed history.

World War II Propaganda Posters

During World War II many propaganda posters supported working women. Of these posters, J. Howard Miller’s “We Can Do It” poster was most popular. In the poster a strong, competent woman dressed in overalls and bandanna named Rosie the Riveter is shown. Rosie the Riveter was certainly a symbol of patriotic womanhood. The intended audience for the poster was women working in manufacturing plants and producing war supplies. The purpose of the poster was to stir emotion and encourage women who have replaced male working jobs. The “We Can Do It” poster is persuasive because it displays a women’s role in a way that has never been done before. In conclusion the “We Can Do It” poster was most influential for women during World War II.

Top 5 Causes of World War II

The top five causes of World War II:

1. The Treaty of Versailles
The Treaty of Versailles that ended World War I started a new war. The treaty caused anger and a deep mistrust of Germany’s new government, the Weimar Republic. The need to pay war reparations was added to the instability of the government, and destroyed the German economy. In addition, Germany was required to demilitarize the Rhineland and limit the size of its military, especially its air force. Germany’s colonies were taken away and the country of Poland was formed. Finally the treaty made invasion of Austria, Poland, and Czechoslovakia nearly impossible. In conclusion the Treaty of Versailles angered Germany.

2. Rise of Fascism and the Nazi Party
The rise of Fascism in Italy and the Nazi Party in Germany contributed to the start of World War II. In Italy, Benito Mussolini and the Fascist Party rose to power during 1922. The Fascists believed in a strong central government, strong offensive military, and a strict control of its industry and people. By 1935, Mussolini became the dictator of Italy and transformed the country into a police state. In Germany, Fascists became known as Nazis. The Nazis and their leader, Adolf Hitler, practiced Fascism while also showing support for the racial purity of the German people. The economic distress in Weimar Germany, along with their "Brown Shirts" militia enabled the Nazis to become a political force. On January 30, 1933, President Paul von Hindenburg granted Hitler power to take over.

3. Europe’s Slow Reaction
When The Treaty of Versailles was made Hitler felt he could ignore it. The problem was; he was right. Europe’s failure to react was shown when Austria and the Sudentenland were occupied. The powers of Europe only reacted when it became obvious that Hitler was determined to expand east. In conclusion Europe’s slow response to Hitler could have been the war exploded to the size it was.

4. America and Isolation
When war broke out many Americans were strongly against getting involved. The results of World War I had given the United States reason to stay isolated. This feeling of isolation was shown through the passage of Neutrality Acts and other hands off approaches. When the League of Nations was denied the United States and any other nation was unable to have a say in Germany’s choices. In conclusion the lack of the League of Nations contributed to start of WWII.
5. The Changing American Attitude
The United States bailed on its isolation theory in 1941. The Lend Lease Act allowed America to “sell, transfer title to, exchange, lease, lend, or otherwise dispose of, to any such government....any defense article." Next the Atlantic Charter was created to discuss Great Britain and the United States war against fascism. Finally the attack on Pearl Harbor officially pushed America into war. In conclusion 1941 turned the United States position in World War II.

The World War I Home Front

Propaganda and news media has affected the lives of many during this time of Great War. Woodrow Wilsons Committee on Public information has given enthusiasm to the war effort. George Creel, the head honcho of the operation, has sent 75,000 “four-minute men” to deliver patriotism to the United States. Wilson’s propaganda is hard to get away from. Posters, billboards, movies and books have been made to catch everyone’s attention. Measures have gone so far that in Schenck v. United States the Supreme Court affirmed their legality, arguing that freedom of speech could be revoked when such speech posed a “clear and present danger” to the nation. In conclusion propaganda and news media has greatly affected the nation.

WWI – Pro vs Con – Neutral or Fight

The United States had no choice but to fight in World War I. Before their entrance more than 6,000,000 men had died. The number of deaths were extremely intimidating to the unprepared United States army. The United States soon realized if they were to get involved they would lose 100,000 to 200,000 Americans. The United States plan of neutrality did not last long. Innocent American merchants were putting their lives at risk trying to trade during a time of war. Nearly 100 Americans were killed by German U-boats. The ties of American alliances pressured the United States into the war. Our delayed entrance was perfect for relieving tired allies and destroying tired enemies. In conclusion entering World War I was necessary.