Arsenal of democracy

Definition

The term 'arsenal of democracy' refers to the United States' role in providing military supplies and support to the Allies during World War II, emphasizing its capacity to produce vast amounts of war material. This phrase, coined by President Franklin D. Roosevelt, highlighted how American industry would support not only its own military efforts but also those of its allies, thereby shaping the economic mobilization necessary for victory in the war.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The phrase 'arsenal of democracy' was popularized by Roosevelt in a 1940 speech, calling for American support for the Allies against fascism.
2. U.S. factories transformed rapidly to meet wartime demands, producing everything from tanks to airplanes at unprecedented rates.
3. The arsenal of democracy not only boosted military production but also significantly reduced unemployment as millions of Americans entered the workforce.
4. Women and minorities played critical roles in this economic mobilization, filling jobs that were previously closed to them as men went off to war.
5. The success of the arsenal of democracy laid the groundwork for post-war economic growth and established the U.S. as a dominant economic power.

Review Questions

• How did the concept of the 'arsenal of democracy' impact American industry during World War II?
  • The 'arsenal of democracy' transformed American industry by shifting production from consumer goods to military supplies. Factories across the nation retooled to manufacture war materials like ships, tanks, and ammunition, leading to an economic boom. This shift not only increased the output needed for the war effort but also created jobs, significantly reducing unemployment and mobilizing the workforce for industrial production.
• Evaluate the social changes that occurred in the United States as a result of becoming the 'arsenal of democracy.'
  • Becoming the 'arsenal of democracy' led to significant social changes in the U.S., particularly regarding gender roles and racial dynamics in the workplace. With many men serving in the military, women entered factories in large numbers, taking on roles traditionally held by men. Additionally, this mobilization opened doors for minorities, who began working in defense industries, challenging pre-war employment norms and laying the groundwork for future civil rights advancements.
• Analyze the long-term effects of the 'arsenal of democracy' on America's global standing after World War II.
  • The 'arsenal of democracy' solidified America's position as a global superpower in the post-war world. By becoming the primary supplier of military equipment for Allied forces, the U.S. not only won the war but also established itself as an economic powerhouse capable of influencing international affairs. This shift resulted in a new world order dominated by American economic interests and paved the way for initiatives like the Marshall Plan, which aimed at rebuilding Europe while simultaneously promoting American capitalism and democracy.

Related terms

Lend-Lease Act: A U.S. policy that allowed the government to supply Allied nations with war material and supplies during World War II without requiring immediate payment.

War Production Board: A government agency created to oversee and coordinate the production of war materials and supplies during World War II, ensuring efficient use of resources.

Economic Mobilization: The process by which a country prepares its economy for war, including shifting industries to produce military goods and organizing labor forces to support these efforts.