1.
At the end of World War I, many new democracies were established in Europe. In the years between the two world wars,
what happened to most of these democracies?
Correct Answer
D. They were replaced by dictators
Explanation
In the years between the two world wars, most of the new democracies established in Europe were replaced by dictators. This was a common trend during this period as economic instability, political unrest, and social dissatisfaction created an environment conducive for the rise of authoritarian leaders. These dictators often promised stability and strong leadership, gaining support from the disillusioned population. As a result, democratic institutions were dismantled, and these countries experienced a shift towards autocratic rule.
2.
How were Britain and France drawn into war with Germany?
Correct Answer
B. Germany had attacked Poland
Explanation
Germany's attack on Poland is the reason why Britain and France were drawn into war with Germany. This act of aggression by Germany violated international norms and threatened the stability of Europe. As a result, Britain and France, who had pledged to protect Poland in the event of an attack, declared war on Germany in order to defend Poland and uphold their commitments to collective security.
3.
What happened during the Battle of Britain?
Correct Answer
C. Germany bombed Britain for two months
Explanation
During the Battle of Britain, Germany bombed Britain for two months. This was a significant event during World War II, where the German Luftwaffe launched a massive aerial assault on British cities and infrastructure. The bombings were part of Germany's strategy to weaken the British Royal Air Force and pave the way for a potential invasion of Britain. The battle lasted from July to October 1940 and resulted in heavy casualties and destruction on both sides, but ultimately, the British successfully defended their country against the German attacks.
4.
On which of the following did Joseph Stalin and Benito Mussolini disagree?
Correct Answer
D. Ownership of property
Explanation
Joseph Stalin and Benito Mussolini disagreed on the issue of ownership of property. Stalin believed in the concept of collectivization, where all property and means of production should be owned and controlled by the state. He implemented this policy in the Soviet Union, leading to the nationalization of industries and the forced collectivization of agriculture. On the other hand, Mussolini, as a fascist leader, believed in a mixed economy where private property and capitalism coexisted with state control. He allowed private property ownership and supported a corporatist economic system in Italy.
5.
Which of the following statements most accurately reflects Roosevelt's feelings toward joining the war?
Correct Answer
B. He wanted to help the Allies but had to appease U.S. citizens who opposed entering the war.
Explanation
Roosevelt's feelings toward joining the war can be inferred from the statement that he wanted to help the Allies but had to appease U.S. citizens who opposed entering the war. This suggests that Roosevelt personally believed in supporting the Allies, but he had to consider the opinions and concerns of the American public who were against getting involved in the war.
6.
What was the Lend-Lease Act?
Correct Answer
C. A policy allowing the president to provide arms to certain foreign countries
Explanation
The Lend-Lease Act was a policy allowing the president to provide arms to certain foreign countries. This act was passed by the United States Congress in 1941, allowing the president (at that time, Franklin D. Roosevelt) to lend or lease military equipment and supplies to any country deemed vital to the defense of the United States. It was a significant shift in the US foreign policy, as it marked a move towards greater involvement in World War II before officially entering the war. The act played a crucial role in providing military aid to countries like the United Kingdom and the Soviet Union during the war.
7.
To combat wartime inflation, the U.S. government did all of the following except
Correct Answer
A. Raise and extend the income tax.
Explanation
During wartime, governments often implement measures to combat inflation. These measures can include imposing wage and price controls to regulate the cost of goods and services, encouraging the purchase of war bonds to raise funds for the war effort, and increasing production of consumer goods to stimulate the economy. However, raising and extending the income tax is not a measure typically used to combat inflation. Instead, it is a way to generate revenue for the government. Therefore, the correct answer is raise and extend the income tax.
8.
During the war, women in the WAACs served as
Correct Answer
D. Nurses and radio operators.
Explanation
During the war, women in the WAACs (Women's Army Auxiliary Corps) primarily served as nurses and radio operators. This is because these roles were considered suitable for women at that time, and they played a crucial role in providing medical support and communication services on the battlefield. While women did serve in other capacities during the war, such as factory workers and shipbuilders, the WAACs specifically focused on nursing and radio operation.
9.
Germany's goal in the Battle of the Atlantic was to
Correct Answer
B. Keep food and war supplies from reaching Great Britain and the Soviet Union.
Explanation
Germany's goal in the Battle of the Atlantic was to keep food and war supplies from reaching Great Britain and the Soviet Union. This was a crucial objective for Germany as it aimed to weaken the enemy by cutting off their essential supplies. By disrupting the flow of resources, Germany hoped to starve and weaken both Great Britain and the Soviet Union, making it easier to defeat them in the war. This strategy was a key part of Germany's overall war effort and played a significant role in shaping the outcome of the Battle of the Atlantic.
10.
In the Battle of Stalingrad, all of the following contributed to the Soviet victory except
Correct Answer
B. A massive Allied invasion.
Explanation
The Battle of Stalingrad was a turning point in World War II, and the Soviet victory was influenced by several factors. One of these factors was the brutal winter, which caught the German army off guard and weakened their forces. Additionally, the massive Soviet counterattack played a crucial role in pushing back the German forces. Hitler's refusal to order a German retreat also worked in favor of the Soviets, as it led to the encirclement and eventual surrender of the German army. However, there was no mention of a massive Allied invasion in the context of the Battle of Stalingrad, so it did not contribute to the Soviet victory.
11.
In deciding to use the atomic bomb against Japan, President Truman's main goal was to
Correct Answer
A. End the war quickly.
Explanation
President Truman's main goal in deciding to use the atomic bomb against Japan was to end the war quickly. This decision was made in order to avoid a prolonged conflict and further loss of lives on both sides. The atomic bomb was seen as a way to force Japan to surrender and bring a swift conclusion to the war. Other factors such as weakening Japan or seeking revenge for Pearl Harbor may have played a role, but the primary objective was to bring an end to the war as quickly as possible.
12.
The GI Bill of Rights made it possible for
Correct Answer
C. Veterans to attend college for free.
Explanation
The GI Bill of Rights, also known as the Servicemen's Readjustment Act of 1944, provided numerous benefits to veterans returning from World War II. One of the major provisions of the bill was that it allowed veterans to attend college for free. This was a significant opportunity for many veterans, including African Americans, as it provided them with access to education and the chance to improve their future prospects. By covering the costs of tuition, books, and living expenses, the GI Bill opened up educational opportunities that were previously unavailable to many veterans.
13.
Roosevelt's decision to remove people of Japanese ancestry to internment camps was a response to
Correct Answer
A. Strong anti-Japanese sentiment.
Explanation
Roosevelt's decision to remove people of Japanese ancestry to internment camps was a response to strong anti-Japanese sentiment. This sentiment was fueled by fear and prejudice following the attack on Pearl Harbor by Japan in 1941. Many Americans viewed all Japanese Americans as potential threats to national security, regardless of their loyalty or innocence. This led to the discriminatory policy of internment, which violated the civil rights of thousands of innocent Japanese Americans during World War II.
14.
An example of racial tensions during the war years is
Correct Answer
D. The zoot suit riots in LA
Explanation
During the war years, the zoot suit riots in LA exemplified racial tensions. These riots were a series of conflicts between Mexican American youths and white servicemen, fueled by racial discrimination and cultural differences. The zoot suit, worn by Mexican American youths, became a symbol of rebellion and was seen as unpatriotic by some. The riots highlighted the racial tensions and discrimination faced by minority groups during this time, as well as the broader issues of segregation and inequality in American society.
15.
What did the United States do after Japan surrendered at the end of World War II?
Correct Answer
D. Occupied Japan and helped it to establish a constitution and democratic government
Explanation
After Japan surrendered at the end of World War II, the United States occupied Japan and assisted in establishing a constitution and democratic government. This occupation aimed to rebuild Japan's economy and promote stability and democracy in the country.
16.
Which description accurately defines the Nuremberg Trials?
Correct Answer
C. An international tribunal to try Nazi officials for crimes against humanity
Explanation
The Nuremberg Trials were an international tribunal that took place after World War II to try Nazi officials for their involvement in crimes against humanity. These trials were significant in establishing the principle of individual accountability for war crimes and paved the way for the development of international criminal law.
17.
Which statement best describes women workers during World War II?
Correct Answer
B. They were paid as much as men for the same jobs.
Explanation
During World War II, women workers were paid as much as men for the same jobs. This was a significant change from previous times when women were typically paid less than men for doing the same work. The war created a need for more workers, and women were recruited to fill various roles traditionally held by men. To attract and retain female workers, employers offered equal pay to encourage their participation in the workforce. This shift in pay equality was an important step towards gender equality in the workplace.
18.
World War II changed U.S. industries because U.S. industry
Correct Answer
D. Spread to the South and West, historically dominated by ranching and mining.
19.
World War II sparked many technological developments. After the war, the world was changed the most by
Correct Answer
C. The invention of the atomic bomb.
Explanation
During World War II, the invention of the atomic bomb had a profound impact on the world. This technological development not only changed the course of the war, but also had long-lasting effects on global politics, military strategies, and the balance of power among nations. The atomic bomb ushered in the nuclear age and led to the development of more advanced and destructive weapons. It also sparked the arms race between superpowers, shaping the geopolitical landscape for decades to come. Therefore, the invention of the atomic bomb had the most significant and far-reaching impact on the world after World War II.
20.
People who argued against using the atomic bomb maintained that
Correct Answer
B. Its power was greater than needed to defeat the Japanese.
Explanation
The argument against using the atomic bomb was that its power was greater than what was necessary to defeat the Japanese. This implies that the bomb was seen as excessively destructive and that there were concerns about the ethical implications of using such a devastating weapon. The argument suggests that alternative methods of ending the war should be explored before resorting to such extreme measures.
21.
Stalin did not keep the promises he had made to Roosevelt and Churchill before the end of World War II. One promise was
to
Correct Answer
B. Allow free elections in Eastern Europe.
Explanation
Stalin did not keep the promise he had made to Roosevelt and Churchill to allow free elections in Eastern Europe. This means that after World War II, the countries in Eastern Europe did not have the opportunity to democratically elect their leaders. Instead, Stalin established communist governments in these countries, effectively denying the people their right to choose their own government.
22.
Which statement best describes the relationship between the United States and Japan at the time of the attack on Pearl
Harbor in 1941?
Correct Answer
D. Diplomats on both sides had agreed to talk to avoid a showdown.
23.
After the Allies won the hard-fought battles of Iwo Jima and Okinawa, they realized
Correct Answer
B. That an invasion of Japan might involve too many Allied casualties.
Explanation
After the Allies won the hard-fought battles of Iwo Jima and Okinawa, they realized that an invasion of Japan might involve too many Allied casualties. This suggests that the battles of Iwo Jima and Okinawa provided the Allies with insight into the potential cost of a full-scale invasion of Japan. The high casualties suffered during these battles likely made them aware of the formidable resistance they would face from the Japanese military and the challenges they would encounter in trying to conquer the mainland.
24.
Which statement best describes what happened after the D-Day invasion of Normandy in France?
Correct Answer
D. Within a few months, the Allies had taken Paris and all of France.
Explanation
After the D-Day invasion of Normandy in France, the Allies were successful in taking Paris and all of France within a few months. This suggests that the invasion was a turning point in the war and marked a significant advancement for the Allies in their campaign against Germany.
25.
What caused militarist leaders to gain control of the Japanese government in the early 1930s?
Correct Answer
C. Their successful invasion of resource-rich Manchuria
Explanation
In the early 1930s, militarist leaders gained control of the Japanese government due to their successful invasion of resource-rich Manchuria. This invasion provided Japan with valuable resources and increased their power and influence in the region. The militarist leaders used this success to strengthen their position and gain control over the government, ultimately leading to an increase in militarization and aggression in Japanese foreign policy.
26.
Locate the Maginot Line on the map. What was the intended purpose of the Maginot Line?
Correct Answer
A. To protect France from German attack
Explanation
The intended purpose of the Maginot Line was to protect France from German invasion. The Maginot Line was a system of fortifications built along the French-German border after World War I. It was designed to deter and defend against any potential German aggression by creating a heavily fortified barrier. The line consisted of underground bunkers, artillery emplacements, and obstacles to impede enemy advancement. However, it ultimately proved ineffective during World War II, as the German forces bypassed the line by invading through Belgium.
27.
Locate Great Britain on the map. Why might it have been more difficult for Germany to occupy Britain than to occupy France?
Correct Answer
B. Britain was surrounded by water
Explanation
Germany would have faced significant challenges in occupying Britain due to its geographical location. Being an island nation, Britain is surrounded by water, which would have made it difficult for Germany to launch a full-scale invasion. The English Channel, with its strong currents and unpredictable weather, would have posed a significant barrier for German forces. Additionally, Britain's naval power and ability to control the sea would have made it challenging for Germany to transport troops and supplies across the water. On the other hand, France shares a land border with Germany, making it more accessible and easier to occupy.
28.
Write the letter of the description that does NOT match the name or term.
Joseph Stalin
Correct Answer
B. Communist
Explanation
Joseph Stalin is correctly described as a nationalist, as he played a significant role in promoting and strengthening the concept of Russian nationalism during his leadership. However, the term "communist" does not match his name or description, as Stalin was a communist leader who implemented policies aligned with Marxist-Leninist ideology in the Soviet Union.
29.
Write the letter of the description that does NOT match the name or term.
Adolph Hitler
Correct Answer
E. Supported the Treaty of Versailles
30.
Which was a characteristic of Germany under Adolf Hitler and the Soviet Union under Josef Stalin?
Correct Answer
B. Governmental control of the media
Explanation
During their respective reigns, both Adolf Hitler in Germany and Josef Stalin in the Soviet Union exercised strict governmental control over the media. They used propaganda and censorship to manipulate public opinion and suppress any dissenting voices. This control over the media allowed them to shape the narrative and maintain their grip on power, effectively controlling the flow of information and ensuring that only their ideologies were propagated.
31.
Which is one major reason the Holocaust is considered a unique event in modern European history?
Correct Answer
D. The genocide was planned in great detail and required the cooperation of many people.
Explanation
The Holocaust is considered a unique event in modern European history because it was a genocide that was meticulously planned and required the collaboration of numerous individuals. The systematic and organized nature of the Holocaust sets it apart from other instances of persecution or violence. The scale and extent of the atrocities committed during the Holocaust make it a distinct and unparalleled event in European history.
32.
What was the Manhattan Project?
Correct Answer
B. The plan to develop the atomic bomb
Explanation
The Manhattan Project refers to the plan to develop the atomic bomb. It was a top-secret research and development project undertaken by the United States during World War II. The project aimed to harness the power of nuclear fission to create a devastating weapon. It involved the collaboration of scientists, engineers, and military personnel, and ultimately led to the successful creation and testing of the first atomic bombs. The project had a significant impact on the outcome of the war and the subsequent arms race during the Cold War era.
33.
Compare the ways in which Hitler, Churchill, and Roosevelt used their powers as gifted speakers to accomplish
their political aims during World War II.
34.
“ In the future days, which we seek to make secure,
we look forward to a world founded upon four
essential human freedoms. The first is freedom of
speech and expression. —everywhere in the world.
The second is freedom of every person to worship
God in his own way. —everywhere in the world. The
third is freedom from want. . . . The fourth is freedom
from fear.”
—Franklin Roosevelt, Address to Congress, 1941
The “four freedoms” speech helped gain widespread support in the United States for —
Correct Answer
A. Increasing aid to the Allies.
Explanation
The "four freedoms" speech by Franklin Roosevelt emphasized the importance of essential human freedoms, including freedom of speech, freedom of worship, freedom from want, and freedom from fear. This speech helped gain widespread support in the United States for increasing aid to the Allies during World War II. By highlighting the need to secure these freedoms worldwide, Roosevelt made a compelling case for providing assistance to countries fighting against the Axis powers, ultimately leading to increased aid to the Allies.
35.
What is your interpretation of this political cartoon?