1.
“How horrible, fantastic, incredible it
is that we should be digging trenches and trying on gas masks here because of
a quarrel in a faraway country.”
—Neville
Chamberlain, 1938
This statement by the prime
minister of Great Britain about German efforts to gain control of a portion of
Czechoslovakia prior to World War II hints at the prime minister’s support for
what type of foreign policy?
Correct Answer
C. Isolationism
Explanation
The statement by Neville Chamberlain suggests his support for isolationism as a foreign policy. He expresses his disbelief and frustration at the fact that they are preparing for war due to a conflict in a distant country. This implies a desire to avoid getting involved in foreign disputes and maintaining a policy of non-intervention.
2.
Which man established a
totalitarian regime in the Soviet Union?
Correct Answer
A. Stalin
Explanation
Stalin established a totalitarian regime in the Soviet Union. He rose to power after the death of Lenin and implemented policies that consolidated his control over the country. Stalin's regime was characterized by strict government control, repression of political opposition, and the implementation of a planned economy. He carried out purges and executed millions of people, creating a climate of fear and ensuring his absolute authority. Stalin's regime lasted for almost three decades and had a profound impact on the Soviet Union and its people.
3.
“While billions of the taxpayers' money
are being spent for war weapons, Negro workers are finally being turned away
from the gates of factories, mines and mills—being flatly told, ‘NOTHING
DOING.’ Some employers refuse to give Negroes jobs when they are without ‘union
cards,’ and some unions refuse Negro workers union cards when they are ‘without
jobs.’
“What shall we do? . . .
“With faith and confidence of the Negro
people in their own power for self-liberation, Negroes can break down that
barriers of discrimination against employment in National Defense. Negroes can
kill the deadly serpent of race hatred in the Army, Navy, Air and Marine Corps,
and smash through and blast the Government, business and labor-union red tape
to win the right to equal opportunity in vocational training and re-training in
defense employment.
“Most important and vital of all, Negroes,
by the mobilization and coordination of their mass power, can cause PRESIDENT
ROOSEVELT TO ISSUE AN EXECUTIVE ORDER ABOLISHING DISCRIMINATIONS IN ALL
GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENT, ARMY, NAVY, AIR CORPS AND NATIONAL DEFENSE JOBS.”
—A. Philip Randolph, “Call to Negro
America to March on Washington
for Jobs and Equal Participation in
National Defense,” May 1941
What problem did A. Philip
Randolph identify?
Correct Answer
D. Black Americans were being denied employment in factories, mines, and mills
Explanation
A. Philip Randolph identified the problem of Black Americans being denied employment in factories, mines, and mills. He highlighted how they were being turned away from these places and were not given job opportunities, often due to discriminatory practices by employers and unions. Randolph emphasized the need for equal opportunity in vocational training and re-training in defense employment, and called for the mobilization of mass power to abolish discrimination in all government departments and national defense jobs.
4.
Why did Hitler attack
Denmark and Norway?
Correct Answer
B. To improve Germany’s access to the Atlantic Ocean
Explanation
Hitler attacked Denmark and Norway to improve Germany's access to the Atlantic Ocean. By occupying these countries, Germany would have control over their ports and naval bases, allowing them to establish a stronger presence in the North Sea and have easier access to the Atlantic. This would facilitate German naval operations and enhance their ability to project power and control shipping routes in the region.
5.
Which of the following was
an essential component of fascism?
Correct Answer
D. Nationalism
Explanation
Nationalism was an essential component of fascism because it emphasized the idea of a strong and unified nation, often promoting extreme loyalty and pride in one's country. Fascist regimes used nationalism to create a sense of unity among the population, suppress dissent, and justify aggressive actions such as expansionism and militarism. Nationalism in fascism often included the belief in the superiority of one's own nation or race, leading to discrimination and persecution of minority groups.
6.
Which of the following
policies did isolationists favor?
Correct Answer
A. Appeasement
Explanation
Isolationists favored the policy of appeasement. This policy involved making concessions to aggressive nations, such as Hitler's Germany, in order to avoid conflict and maintain peace. Isolationists believed that by appeasing these nations, they could prevent the involvement of their own country in foreign conflicts. This policy was particularly prevalent in the period leading up to World War II, when many nations, including the United States, were hesitant to intervene in the escalating tensions in Europe.
7.
Why was the decision to
allow Hitler to annex the Sudetenland popular in many parts of the world?
Correct Answer
A. Many people thought it would avoid another destructive war.
Explanation
The decision to allow Hitler to annex the Sudetenland was popular in many parts of the world because many people believed that it would avoid another destructive war. They saw it as a way to appease Hitler and prevent further aggression, hoping that giving him what he wanted would satisfy his territorial ambitions and maintain peace. This belief was fueled by the memory of the devastating World War I and a desire to avoid a similar conflict.
8.
Why was the United States
unwilling to let Japan expand into Southeast Asia?
Correct Answer
B. The area contained valuable natural resources.
Explanation
The United States was unwilling to let Japan expand into Southeast Asia because the area contained valuable natural resources. These resources were important for the economic and military strength of the United States, as well as its allies. Allowing Japan to control these resources would have given them a significant advantage and potentially threatened the interests of the United States. Therefore, the United States sought to prevent Japan from expanding in order to protect its access to these valuable resources.
9.
Japan, Germany, and Italy
formed an alliance called
Correct Answer
D. Axis
Explanation
During World War II, Japan, Germany, and Italy formed an alliance known as the Axis. This alliance was based on their shared ideologies of fascism and militarism. They aimed to expand their territories and exert control over other nations. The Axis powers coordinated their military efforts and supported each other in various ways throughout the war. The term "Axis" refers to the alignment of these three countries in opposition to the Allied powers, which included countries such as the United States, the United Kingdom, and the Soviet Union.
10.
Which event led to
Germany’s control over France?
Correct Answer
A. The French were overwhelmed by the German Maginot Line.
Explanation
The Maginot Line was a heavily fortified defensive line built by France along its border with Germany. It was believed to be impenetrable and was expected to deter any German invasion. However, the Germans outmaneuvered the French by launching a surprise attack through the Ardennes Forest, a heavily wooded and hilly area that was considered impassable for tanks and large military forces. The French were caught off guard and their defenses were quickly overwhelmed, leading to Germany's control over France.
11.
What was one difference
between Benito Mussolini and Adolph Hitler?
Correct Answer
B. Hitler was a powerful public speaker; Mussolini was not
Explanation
Hitler was known for his exceptional oratory skills and his ability to captivate and inspire audiences with his speeches. He used his powerful speaking abilities to rally support for his Nazi party and gain control over Germany, eventually becoming a dictator. On the other hand, Mussolini was not renowned for his public speaking skills and did not have the same level of charisma or influence over the masses. While he did become the leader of Italy and established a fascist regime, he did not possess the same level of persuasive speech as Hitler.
12.
By 1933 the Nazis became
the most powerful party in Germany because
Correct Answer
B. They effectively played on public discontent and promised to revive German greatness.
Explanation
The Nazis became the most powerful party in Germany by effectively playing on public discontent and promising to revive German greatness. This suggests that they were able to tap into the frustrations and grievances of the German population, offering them a sense of hope and a vision for a better future. By capitalizing on these sentiments, the Nazis were able to gain significant support and ultimately rise to power.
13.
Use the image to answer the
question. Why do you think this poster was produced?
Correct Answer
A. To encourage Americans to support the war effort
Explanation
The poster was most likely produced to encourage Americans to support the war effort because it features a strong and patriotic image of a soldier, along with the text "I want you for U.S. Army." This suggests that the poster was intended to recruit individuals to join the army and support the war effort.
14.
Although American officials
were convinced that war with Japan was inevitable, they refused to fire the
first shot. One reason was probably that
Correct Answer
C. Many Americans were isolationists and would not support a first
Explanation
The correct answer is that many Americans were isolationists and would not support a first war. This is likely because during this time period, there was a strong sentiment among Americans to avoid involvement in international conflicts and focus on domestic affairs. The memory of World War I and its devastating effects also contributed to this isolationist mindset. Therefore, American officials were hesitant to initiate a war with Japan without the support of the American people.
15.
The removal of people to
internment camps during World War II was based solely on
Correct Answer
B. A person’s racial background
Explanation
During World War II, the removal of people to internment camps was based solely on a person's racial background. This was primarily targeted towards Japanese Americans, who were seen as potential threats due to their ancestry. The government justified this action by claiming it was necessary for national security, despite the fact that the majority of Japanese Americans were loyal citizens. This discriminatory policy violated the civil liberties of thousands of innocent individuals and remains a dark chapter in American history.
16.
Which of the following
divided Germany into four sectors?
Correct Answer
A. Yalta
Explanation
The Yalta Conference, held in February 1945, divided Germany into four sectors. This decision was made by the leaders of the Allied powers - Franklin D. Roosevelt, Winston Churchill, and Joseph Stalin - who agreed to split Germany into zones of occupation after World War II. Each sector was controlled by one of the Allied powers - the United States, the Soviet Union, Great Britain, and France. This division was a key step in the post-war reconstruction and governance of Germany.
17.
Which of the following
brought an end to World War II?
Correct Answer
D. Hirohito’s announcement in a radio broadcast
Explanation
Hirohito's announcement in a radio broadcast brought an end to World War II. This announcement was significant because it marked Japan's surrender and the end of the war. It signaled the acceptance of the terms set by the Allies and the cessation of hostilities. The bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki were important events during the war, but they did not directly lead to its conclusion. Germany's surrender, while a significant event in the European theater, did not bring an end to the entire war. Therefore, Hirohito's announcement in a radio broadcast is the correct answer.
18.
Which of the following best
describes why few Jews were able to emigrate from Germany to the United States?
Correct Answer
D. U.S. citizens viewed all Germans with suspicion, and the government was concerned that German Jews would be mistreated if they immigrated.
Explanation
U.S. citizens viewed all Germans with suspicion, and the government was concerned that German Jews would be mistreated if they immigrated. This answer suggests that the reason few Jews were able to emigrate from Germany to the United States was because of the negative perception and suspicion towards Germans in general, which included German Jews. The U.S. government feared that these German Jews would face mistreatment if they were allowed to immigrate, leading to the limited number of Jews being able to leave Germany for the United States.
19.
Hollywood’s role during
World War II can best be described as
Correct Answer
C. Opposing the war effort
Explanation
During World War II, Hollywood's role can be described as opposing the war effort. This is because many actors, writers, and directors had joined the Army and were unable to make films. This suggests that the industry was not actively supporting the war effort through their productions.
20.
Use the image to answer the
following question. The sacrifice these women were being asked to make most
likely involved
Correct Answer
C. Donating metal pots and pans to scrap drives
Explanation
The image shows a poster from World War II encouraging women to donate their metal pots and pans to scrap drives. This was a common practice during the war, as the metal from these items could be melted down and used to make weapons and other supplies for the troops. By donating their pots and pans, women were making a sacrifice in their own kitchens in order to support the war effort.
21.
After World War II, the
United States worked
Correct Answer
C. To rebuild Europe and Japan
Explanation
After World War II, the United States focused on rebuilding Europe and Japan. This was done through various initiatives such as the Marshall Plan, which provided financial aid to rebuild war-torn countries, and the establishment of the United Nations to promote international cooperation. The aim was to stabilize these regions and prevent the spread of communism, as well as to foster economic growth and create stable democracies. The United States recognized the importance of rebuilding these nations to ensure peace and stability in the post-war world.
22.
During the Bataan Death
March
Correct Answer
C. American and Filipino soldiers were forced to march for miles or be beaten and shot by Japanese troops
23.
Which of the following best
describes the reason that the Navajo code talkers were so effective?
Correct Answer
A. The Japanese could not break code sent in the complex, unwritten Navajo language.
Explanation
The Navajo code talkers were so effective because the Japanese were unable to decipher the code transmitted in the complex and unwritten Navajo language. The Navajo language was unfamiliar to the Japanese, making it extremely difficult for them to break the code and understand the messages being sent. This gave the Allies a significant advantage in communication and allowed them to transmit sensitive information without the risk of interception or decoding by the enemy.
24.
An important difference
between government spending during the Depression and during World War II was
that
Correct Answer
D. Much of the spending that focused on domestic programs during the Depression was shifted to focus on the war effort
Explanation
During the Great Depression, government spending primarily focused on domestic programs to alleviate the economic crisis. However, during World War II, the government shifted its spending priorities towards the war effort. This meant that much of the funding previously allocated for domestic programs was redirected to support the war, including military production, defense, and other related expenses. This change in spending patterns reflects the shift in national priorities from addressing economic depression to supporting the war effort.
25.
Charles de Gaulle viewed
the French officials of Vichy France as traitors to France
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
Charles de Gaulle viewed the French officials of Vichy France as traitors to France because they collaborated with the Nazis during World War II and actively worked against the interests of the French Resistance and the Free French Forces led by de Gaulle. De Gaulle considered the Vichy regime to be illegitimate and believed that its officials had betrayed the French people by aligning themselves with the enemy. He saw them as traitors to the French nation and fought against their authority throughout the war.
26.
During World War II, women
were allowed to take part in combat for the first time
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
During World War II, women were not allowed to take part in combat for the first time. While women did serve in various roles during the war, including as nurses and in auxiliary roles, they were not officially allowed to participate in combat until much later. It was only in the late 20th century that many countries began to open combat roles to women. Therefore, the statement is false.
27.
In the early days of World
War II, American shipping was the target of devastating German submarine
attacks
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
During the early days of World War II, American shipping was indeed the target of devastating German submarine attacks. The German navy deployed U-boats to target and sink American merchant ships, causing significant damage to the American shipping industry and posing a threat to the Allies' war effort. This tactic was part of Germany's larger strategy to disrupt supply lines and weaken their enemies.
28.
Winston Churchill condemned
Neville Chamberlain’s policy of appeasement
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
Winston Churchill condemned Neville Chamberlain's policy of appeasement. This means that he disapproved of Chamberlain's approach of giving in to the demands of aggressive nations, such as Nazi Germany, in order to maintain peace. Churchill believed that this policy would only embolden the aggressors and lead to further aggression and conflict. Therefore, the correct answer is True.
29.
U.S. government officials
knew in advance that Japan would launch a devastating attack on Pearl Harbor
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
The given statement is false. There is no concrete evidence to suggest that U.S. government officials knew in advance about Japan's plan to attack Pearl Harbor. While there were some intelligence indicators that pointed to a potential attack, they were not specific enough to accurately predict the time, place, or magnitude of the attack. The surprise attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, caught the U.S. off guard and led to their entry into World War II.
30.
The Soviet Union was drawn
into World War II before the United States
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
During World War II, the Soviet Union was indeed drawn into the conflict before the United States. The Soviet Union entered the war in 1941 after being invaded by Nazi Germany in Operation Barbarossa. This invasion caught the Soviet Union off guard and led to their involvement in the war. On the other hand, the United States entered the war in December 1941 after the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor. Therefore, the statement that the Soviet Union was drawn into World War II before the United States is true.
31.
Hitler used the military
strength of the Jews to build suspicion and racism that led to the Final
Solution
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
This statement is false because Hitler did not use the military strength of the Jews to build suspicion and racism. In fact, he targeted and persecuted the Jews, blaming them for Germany's problems and using propaganda to spread anti-Semitic beliefs. The Final Solution, which was the Nazi plan to exterminate the Jewish population, was a result of Hitler's hatred and desire for racial purity, not any military collaboration with the Jews.
32.
Douglas MacArthur vowed to
return to the Philippines after being forced to abandon his troops on the
Bataan Peninsula
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
Douglas MacArthur made a famous promise to return to the Philippines after being forced to leave his troops on the Bataan Peninsula during World War II. This promise became known as his famous "I shall return" speech. MacArthur was determined to fulfill this promise and eventually did so in October 1944 when he led the successful Allied liberation of the Philippines. Therefore, the statement "Douglas MacArthur vowed to return to the Philippines after being forced to abandon his troops on the Bataan Peninsula" is true.
33.
Ernie Pyle was among a
group of battle-hardened reporters who gave live radio broadcasts from
positions near the front lines
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
Ernie Pyle was not among a group of battle-hardened reporters who gave live radio broadcasts from positions near the front lines.
34.
World War II ended in the
Pacific earlier than the fighting in Europe did
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
World War II did not end earlier in the Pacific than in Europe. The war in Europe ended on May 8, 1945, with the surrender of Nazi Germany, while the war in the Pacific continued until August 15, 1945, when Japan surrendered after the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. Therefore, the statement is false.