IGCSE History 0470

3. Depth Studies

3.4 The United States, 1919–41

This section explores the development of the United States between the end of World War I and the attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941. It examines political, social, and economic changes during this period, focusing on the challenges and transformations the nation faced as it transitioned from a global power to a key player in the fight against fascism.

Key Themes

• The Legacy of World War I
• The Roaring Twenties: Social and Cultural Change
• The Great Depression: Economic Crisis and Government Response
• The Rise of Fascism and Isolationism
• The Road to War

1. The Legacy of World War I

The United States emerged from World War I as a major economic power but remained wary of European affairs. President Woodrow Wilson advocated for the League of Nations, but the US Senate ultimately refused to join, reflecting a continued preference for isolationism.

Aspect	Details
Economic Impact	The US became a major creditor to Europe, but faced economic difficulties at home.
Political Position	Despite its role in the war, the US Senate rejected the Treaty of Versailles and the League of Nations.
Social Impact	The war led to social changes, including increased opportunities for women and African Americans, but also heightened racial tensions.

2. The Roaring Twenties: Social and Cultural Change

The 1920s were a period of significant social and cultural change in the United States. Economic prosperity led to increased consumerism, new forms of entertainment, and changing social norms. However, this prosperity was not evenly distributed, and underlying social tensions remained.

Key aspects of the Roaring Twenties include:

• The rise of consumer culture and mass production
• The changing role of women
• The Harlem Renaissance and African American culture
• Prohibition and its social consequences
• The growth of organized crime

3. The Great Depression: Economic Crisis and Government Response

The stock market crash of 1929 triggered the Great Depression, a period of severe economic hardship that affected millions of Americans. The Depression led to widespread unemployment, poverty, and social unrest. President Franklin D. Roosevelt implemented a series of government programs known as the New Deal to alleviate the crisis.

Policy	Description
Relief Programs	Direct aid to the unemployed and impoverished.
Recovery Programs	Government initiatives to stimulate economic growth (e.g., Public Works Administration).
Reform Programs	Legislation aimed at preventing future economic crises (e.g., Social Security Act).

4. The Rise of Fascism and Isolationism

The Great Depression and the rise of totalitarian regimes in Europe (fascism in Italy and Nazism in Germany) contributed to a growing sense of isolationism in the United States. Many Americans were reluctant to become involved in European conflicts.

However, the US government gradually began to provide aid to Britain and France through measures like the Lend-Lease Act, signaling a shift away from strict isolationism.

5. The Road to War

Several factors contributed to the United States' eventual entry into World War II:

• Japanese expansionism in Asia
• The attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941
• Growing concern about the threat of Nazi Germany
• The increasing role of the US in supporting the Allied powers

The attack on Pearl Harbor galvanized American public opinion and led to a declaration of war against Japan, marking the United States' entry into World War II.