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Minding Our Own Business: Isolationist Movement In The 1930s

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Minding Our Own Business
Was America selfish? Growing tensions in Europe made America want to contain military and financial support to foreign countries, and avoid as much conflict as possible. This gave rise to the Isolationist movement in the 1930s. Consisting of both progressives and conservatives, business owners and peace activists, isolationists supported non-involvement in European conflicts due to the economic turmoil of the infamous Great Depression and tragic losses of the first World War. The premise of American isolationism in the 1930s centered around the country’s political, economic, and social affairs at home, but was weakened in wake of World War II.
Sentiments of isolationism have early roots in America’s history, …show more content…

The America First Committee was formed in 1939 to oppose intervention in World War II. Charles Lindbergh, one of America’s firsts celebrities, endorsed the group. He argued that the only way to save the country was to stay out of a hopeless battle in Europe and concentrate on defending the American way of life at home (America in the British Empire 29). However, Isolationism still was losing favor with the public due to the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor, December 7, 1941 helped to change views. The Pearl Harbor Attack raised feelings of anger and anti-Japanese sentiments in the hearts of American citizens. In 1942, all Japanese Americans were placed in internment camps as they were perceived as possible spies. World War II revealed the growing spread of communism which Americans believed was worth fighting against. Also, the 1942 formation of the United Nations, made all 5 permanent members of the alliance, the United States, Great Britain, France, China, and the Soviet Union, responsible for defending and protecting one another in the joined fight against terrorism. This organization is still in effect today, and marks the ultimate downfall of isolationism in America.(“History of the

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