key term - America First organization

Definition

The America First organization was a political movement that emerged in the late 1930s, advocating for American nationalism and isolationism, particularly in the context of World War II. This group emphasized the need to prioritize American interests and resist foreign entanglements, reflecting the sentiments of many Americans who were hesitant about involvement in international conflicts.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The America First organization was founded in 1940 and became one of the largest anti-interventionist movements in the U.S. during the lead-up to World War II.
2. The movement gained significant support among those who believed that U.S. involvement in European conflicts would lead to unnecessary loss of American lives.
3. Charles Lindbergh became a key spokesperson for America First, using his celebrity status to rally support for isolationist policies.
4. The organization's popularity declined after the attack on Pearl Harbor in December 1941, which shifted public opinion towards support for entering World War II.
5. Critics of America First accused it of harboring anti-Semitic and pro-fascist sentiments, especially due to some members' controversial statements and affiliations.

Review Questions

• How did the America First organization reflect the sentiments of many Americans during the late 1930s?
  • The America First organization embodied the isolationist sentiments prevalent among many Americans who were wary of foreign entanglements, especially following the devastation of World War I. It tapped into a growing belief that the U.S. should prioritize its own interests and avoid involvement in another European conflict. This movement resonated with individuals who feared that entering World War II would lead to significant American casualties and economic strain.
• Evaluate the impact of Charles Lindbergh's leadership on the America First organization and its message.
  • Charles Lindbergh's leadership significantly amplified the reach and influence of the America First organization, as he was a nationally recognized figure with considerable public appeal. His speeches emphasized themes of nationalism and isolationism, attracting a broad audience who felt disillusioned with interventionist policies. However, his controversial statements regarding race and foreign policy eventually led to divisions within the organization and criticism from opponents, affecting its overall reputation.
• Analyze how events such as Pearl Harbor influenced public perception of the America First organization and its ideology.
  • The attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, marked a turning point that drastically altered public perception of the America First organization. In the wake of this attack, widespread outrage and a call for action against Japan transformed sentiments from isolationism to a collective desire for engagement in World War II. As a result, America First's message became increasingly marginalized, with many Americans viewing its principles as outdated or even unpatriotic in light of the new national emergency, ultimately leading to its decline as an influential force.

Related terms

Isolationism:

A foreign policy stance advocating for a nation to remain disengaged from international alliances and conflicts, focusing instead on its own interests.

Lindbergh: Charles Lindbergh was a prominent aviator and one of the leading figures of the America First organization, known for his strong isolationist views.

Neutrality Acts:

A series of laws passed in the 1930s aimed at keeping the United States out of foreign conflicts by restricting arms sales and financial loans to belligerent nations.