Kelcee Taylor

World War II and the American Way

The topic that not only interested me the most, but also was the most influential was
World War II. Although I also found the Civil War and the Revolutionary War very influential as
well, I had learned so much about them already in previous classes. For me, learning about
World War II was very new. I find it the most influential for me because this could be considered
something that happened pretty recently in comparison to the Revolution. Also, World War II
was able to really unite America and display us as a strong country. Lastly, World War II opened
the United States eyes to helping our allies instead of remaining dormant.
For the United States, World War II began in 1941, a mere 74 years ago, with the
bombing of Pearl Harbor. This was one of the most devastating events in United States
history .Over 2,400 servicemen and civilians lost their lives that December 7th morning.
Originally, the United States remained on the sidelines only providing aid to a few places, but
now, the United States was thrown in to World War II, declaring war on Japan. Although this
event was extremely tragic, I think it motivated Americans to stick together and fight it out. "No
matter how long it may take us to overcome this premeditated invasion, the American people in
their righteous might will win through to absolute victory." (President Franklin D. Roosevelt,
December 8, 1941).
World War II also presented many opportunities for minors, like African Americans and
women. Everyone was working together to get through this hard time and it didn't seems so bad
since unemployment had basically disappeared and economic output was better than ever. This is
influential for me because I look at World War II as a turning point in the United States for a lot

of reasons, unity from all walks of life and strength of our country being two of them. World War
II showed the world that the United States is a strong country because of our devoted citizens
and hard work, The American way was thriving.
A better understand of US history will influence by future by making me more aware and
more appreciative. Knowing what fights people have gone through so that I can have all of the
freedoms that I have today make me extremely grateful and humbled. I am truly lucky to be part
of such a great country and blessed to have such amazing soldiers and citizens lift up our
country. American history is such an amazing story. We were able to come out on top every time
even when the odds were not in our favor. I have learned that hard work, faith, and dedication is
truly the American way. Dear Lord / Lest I continue / My complacent way / Help me to
remember / Somehow out there / A man died for me today / As long as there be war / I then
must / Ask and answer / Am I worth dying for? (Poem by Eleanor Roosevelt during WWII).
Sources:

!"AMERICA GOES TO WAR:." The National WWII Museum. N.p., n.d. Web. 01 May 2015.
!"The U.S. Home Front During World War II." History.com. A&E Television Networks, n.d. Web. 01 May
2015.
!"US Entry and Alliance." HISTORY. N.p., 03 Apr. 2014. Web. 01 May 2015.