America Declares War: Entering World War II — Reading Comprehension

The United States officially entered World War II on December 8, 1941, after Japan attacked the American naval base at Pearl Harbor in Hawaii. Before this event, many Americans supported staying out of the growing conflict overseas. The government followed a policy of neutrality, hoping to avoid being drawn into another global war after the devastation of World War I. However, rising threats from the Axis powers—Germany, Italy, and Japan—made it increasingly difficult for the United States to remain uninvolved.

There were fierce debates in the United States about whether to aid countries like Britain and China, which were already fighting Axis aggression. Some Americans, called isolationists, argued that involvement would cost American lives and money. Others, known as interventionists, believed that helping allies was necessary to protect democracy and freedom. President Franklin D. Roosevelt tried to balance these views by providing support to allies through programs like Lend-Lease, which supplied weapons and supplies without direct military involvement.

The attack on Pearl Harbor changed everything. On December 7, 1941, Japanese planes destroyed battleships, airplanes, and killed more than 2,400 people. The next day, President Roosevelt addressed Congress, describing December 7th as "a date which will live in infamy." This phrase, from Roosevelt's speech, powerfully expressed the shock and anger felt by many Americans. Congress responded by voting almost unanimously to declare war on Japan. Germany and Italy declared war on the United States soon after, forcing the nation into a global conflict.

The decision to go to war had major consequences. American factories quickly shifted to producing tanks, planes, and other war materials. Millions of men and women joined the armed forces or supported the war effort at home. However, not all Americans agreed with every government action. Japanese Americans, for example, faced discrimination and were forced into internment camps because of fear and suspicion following Pearl Harbor. This shows how war can challenge a nation's values, even as it fights for freedom abroad.

From the perspective of American leaders, entering the war was necessary to stop aggression and defend national security. Many ordinary citizens felt a sense of duty or anger after Pearl Harbor. Yet, others worried about the costs and consequences, especially people whose families would be sent to fight or who experienced loss of rights at home. The Axis powers hoped to expand their control and weaken the United States, but underestimated American resolve. The war transformed the U.S. into a global power and led to lasting changes in politics, society, and the world order.

In summary, America’s entry into World War II was the result of rising global threats, fierce national debates, and a devastating surprise attack. The decision shaped the rest of the twentieth century and continues to influence American identity and foreign policy today.

Interesting Fact: The U.S. declaration of war against Japan was approved by Congress with only one "no" vote, cast by Representative Jeannette Rankin of Montana.

What date did Japan attack Pearl Harbor?

Who was U.S. president in 1941?

Which countries formed the Axis powers?

Why did some Americans support neutrality?

What did the Lend-Lease program do?

What was the result of Pearl Harbor?

The U.S. remained neutral throughout WWII.

What is 'neutrality'?