Short Essay

1. “World War II was a ‘Total War,’ meaning whole countries—governments, militaries, and the civilian populations—were fighting for their very survival. Although the United States was late getting into the war, when it did enter, the entire population mobilized. Consequently, all sacrifices and decisions from 1941 to 1945 were aimed at total victory over the Axis Powers.” Explain this statement. How did American men and women militarize, mobilize, and make sacrifices on the Home Front to support the war effort? How and why does this explain the decision to use the atomic bomb? Use specific information to support your answer.