how did Americans react to events in Europe and Asia in the early years of ww2?

In the early years of World War II (WWII), which began in 1939, Americans generally exhibited a mix of sentiments and reactions to events in Europe and Asia. The United States adopted a policy of neutrality at the outset, as reflected in the neutrality laws passed by Congress. Here are some key aspects of how Americans reacted to events in Europe and Asia during the early years of WWII:

Europe:

1. Neutrality and Isolationism:

• The majority of Americans initially favored a policy of neutrality and isolationism. Memories of the devastation of World War I and a desire to avoid being drawn into another conflict influenced public opinion.

2. Cash-and-Carry Policy:

• In response to the outbreak of war in Europe, the U.S. implemented the "cash-and-carry" policy, allowing belligerent nations to purchase non-military goods from the U.S. as long as they paid in cash and transported the goods using their own ships.

3. Lend-Lease Act (1941):

• As the war in Europe intensified, President Franklin D. Roosevelt sought to provide aid to Allied nations without direct involvement. The Lend-Lease Act (1941) allowed the U.S. to lend or lease military equipment to nations deemed vital to the defense of the United States.

Asia:

1. Concerns about Japanese Expansion:

• Americans were increasingly concerned about Japanese expansion in Asia, particularly after the invasion of China in the 1930s and the occupation of French Indochina in 1940. The U.S. responded with economic sanctions against Japan.

2. Attack on Pearl Harbor (1941):

• The situation in Asia became a catalyst for U.S. involvement in the war. The Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, led to a dramatic shift in public opinion and a unified commitment to entering the conflict.

Changes in Public Opinion:

1. Shift towards Interventionism:

• While there was a strong desire for neutrality initially, events such as the fall of France in 1940 and the Battle of Britain stirred sympathy for the Allied cause. The perception that the war was a threat to democratic values led to a gradual shift towards interventionism.

2. Propaganda and Media Influence:

• Propaganda played a role in shaping public opinion. Media, including newsreels and radio broadcasts, conveyed the atrocities committed by Axis powers, influencing public sentiment against fascism and militarism.

3. Atlantic Charter (1941):

• The Atlantic Charter, a joint declaration by President Roosevelt and British Prime Minister Winston Churchill in 1941, outlined post-war goals and emphasized the principles of self-determination and international cooperation. It garnered support for the Allied cause.

4. Selective Service Act (1940):

• The U.S. began preparing for potential military involvement with measures such as the passage of the Selective Service Act in 1940, which authorized the draft.

In summary, Americans initially favored neutrality and isolationism but gradually shifted towards interventionism as events unfolded in Europe and Asia. The Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor served as a pivotal moment, leading to a unified commitment to actively participate in the war. The early years of WWII marked a transformation in U.S. foreign policy and public sentiment, ultimately leading to the nation's full engagement in the conflict.