AP World History: Modern
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🌍ap world history: modern review
7.7 Conducting World War II
Verified for the 2025 AP World History: Modern exam•Citation:MLA
World War II, like World War I, was a total war—but on a much larger scale. It mobilized millions of troops from every inhabited continent and reshaped the political, social, and economic fabric of the globe. Colonies of the Allied Powers, such as India (under Britain), contributed significantly to the war effort, making the conflict truly global.
At their peak, the major powers fielded massive armies:
| Country | Peak Troop Strength (approx.) |
|---|---|
| United States | 12.36 million |
| Soviet Union | 12.5 million |
| Germany | 10 million |
| France | 5 million |
| United Kingdom | 4.87 million |
| Italy | 4.5 million |
| Japan | 6.1 million |
Mobilizing Populations for Total War
To win the war, governments had to mobilize every available resource—human, industrial, and ideological. Strategies varied across regimes but often relied on a combination of propaganda, ideology, and centralized planning.
Political Propaganda
All belligerent nations used propaganda to galvanize public support. Governments employed:
- Emotional appeals: Framing the war as a defense of national values and freedom.
- Demonization of the enemy: Depicting Axis or Allied powers as inhumane threats.
- Heroic narratives: Highlighting the bravery of soldiers and sacrifice of civilians.
- Popular culture and celebrities: Leveraging radio, film, and art for mass appeal.
- Media control: Using censorship to hide setbacks and control public morale.
- Colonial propaganda: Targeting imperial possessions to secure loyalty and resources.
Examples of Propaganda in Action
- Britain: The Ministry of Information used films and posters like “Keep Calm and Carry On” and “Careless Talk Costs Lives” to preserve unity and boost morale.
- United States: The Office of War Information (OWI) mass-produced posters (“Uncle Sam Wants You”) and partnered with Hollywood to stir patriotism.
- Japan: The Naval Ministry produced animated films such as Momotaro: Sacred Sailors to glorify Japanese expansion and military loyalty.
Using Ideology to Mobilize
Authoritarian and totalitarian states leaned heavily on ideology to justify war and direct national efforts. They repressed dissent and emphasized loyalty to the state and its leader.
Comparative Overview of Wartime Ideologies
| Country | Ideology | Mobilization Strategies |
|---|---|---|
| Nazi Germany | Fascism/Nazism | Aryan supremacy, antisemitism, command economy, SS enforcement |
| Fascist Italy | Fascism | Corporate state, nationalism, youth conscription, public works |
| Imperial Japan | Fascism/Emperor cult | Emperor worship, bushido code, loyalty through military control |
| Soviet Union | Communism | Central planning, collectivization, propaganda, repression |
| United States | Democracy/Capitalism | War bonds, free press, mass production, democratic mobilization |
| United Kingdom | Constitutional monarchy | Volunteer enlistment, rationing, unity through shared sacrifice |
⭐ Totalitarian states like Germany, Italy, Japan, and the USSR emphasized ideology to justify repression and total war mobilization. In contrast, democratic powers like the U.S. and Britain relied more on voluntary participation and civil liberties while still employing propaganda and centralized planning.
Technological Innovation and Wartime Tactics
World War II featured dramatic advances in military technology and new tactics that increased destruction and casualties.
- Aircraft: Long-range bombers enabled devastating air raids on civilian and industrial targets.
- Naval Warfare: Submarines and radar-controlled naval guns revolutionized sea combat.
- Atomic Weapons: The U.S. used atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki, killing over 200,000 and ushering in the nuclear age.
- Firebombing: Cities like Dresden, Tokyo, and Hamburg were bombed to terrorize civilian populations into surrender.
- Blitzkrieg: Germany’s "lightning war" tactic emphasized rapid, mechanized attacks.
These strategies blurred the line between combatants and civilians, making the war more brutal and expansive than WWI.
War Efforts in Key Nations
United States
- Enacted the Lend-Lease Act to support Allies with weapons and materials.
- Mobilized mass production, ending the Great Depression through wartime industry.
- Women joined the workforce en masse, symbolized by Rosie the Riveter.
- Adopted an island-hopping strategy in the Pacific to reach Japan gradually.
United Kingdom
- Resisted Nazi invasion through air power in the Battle of Britain.
- Partnered with the U.S. for joint military production and strategic planning.
- Maintained colonial support through targeted propaganda and recruitment.
Soviet Union
- Faced immense losses due to early defeats and Stalin’s purges of military leadership.
- Staged a massive comeback after Battle of Stalingrad with U.S. and British aid.
- Used centralized planning and forced labor to maintain arms production.
Germany
- Mobilized all sectors of society under a command economy.
- Persecuted Jews and minorities under genocidal policies while pursuing total war.
- Relied on rapid military advances before supply chains and manpower faltered.
Italy
- Initially invaded Ethiopia and intervened in Spain pre-WWII.
- Weak performance during WWII led to Mussolini’s ousting in 1943.
- Northern Italy became a German puppet state after his removal.
Japan
- Expanded its empire across Asia and the Pacific.
- Justified conquests under the Greater East Asia Co-Prosperity Sphere.
- Refused to surrender until after the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki.
Conclusion
World War II was the apex of total war, with every nation’s political system, ideology, economy, and civilian population deeply embedded in the conflict. While strategies varied across regimes, all powers used propaganda, industrial might, and new technologies to achieve victory—at an extraordinary human cost.
Key Terms to Review (38)
Allied Powers: The Allied Powers were a coalition of countries that opposed the Central Powers during World War I and later included key nations fighting against the Axis Powers during World War II. This alliance initially consisted of major powers like France, Russia, and the United Kingdom, which later expanded to include the United States and other nations. Their collaboration was crucial in both conflicts, significantly shaping the course of history and international relations in the 20th century.
Atomic Weapons: Atomic weapons, also known as nuclear weapons, are explosive devices that derive their destructive force from nuclear reactions, either fission or fusion. These weapons were developed during World War II and played a crucial role in the conflict's conclusion, as they significantly changed the landscape of warfare and international relations in the subsequent Cold War period.
Blitzkrieg Tactics: Blitzkrieg tactics, translated as 'lightning war,' were a military strategy used by Germany in World War II that emphasized rapid and surprise attacks utilizing a combination of air power and ground forces. This approach aimed to quickly incapacitate the enemy's ability to respond, leading to swift victories through the coordinated use of tanks, infantry, and aircraft. By employing these tactics, Germany sought to minimize the duration of conflict and reduce casualties while maximizing the shock effect on opponents.
Bombings on Hiroshima and Nagasaki: The bombings on Hiroshima and Nagasaki were pivotal events during World War II when the United States dropped atomic bombs on these Japanese cities in August 1945. These bombings marked the first and only use of nuclear weapons in warfare, leading to Japan's unconditional surrender and the end of World War II. The bombings also ushered in a new era of military strategy and global politics, highlighting the devastating power of nuclear weapons.
Britain: Britain refers to the island nation that became a global powerhouse during the Industrial Revolution, particularly in the 18th and 19th centuries. Its vast maritime empire and innovative industrial practices positioned it as a leader in economic, political, and cultural spheres, influencing global dynamics and interactions across different regions.
Communism (Soviet Union): Communism in the Soviet Union was a political and economic ideology that aimed for a classless society where all property is publicly owned and each person works and is paid according to their abilities and needs. This system emerged after the Russian Revolution of 1917 and was characterized by state control over the economy, centralized planning, and the suppression of political dissent, which played a significant role during World War II as the USSR fought against Axis powers.
Communicating through various mediums: Communicating through various mediums refers to the diverse methods and channels used to convey information, ideas, and messages, particularly during significant historical events. During World War II, this included radio broadcasts, newspapers, film, and propaganda, all of which played crucial roles in shaping public perception, morale, and information dissemination across different populations involved in the conflict.
Corporate State Concept (Italy): The Corporate State Concept was an economic and political system developed in Italy under Benito Mussolini, emphasizing the collaboration between the state, businesses, and labor groups to manage the economy. This approach aimed to eliminate class conflict by integrating various social groups into a single framework that promoted national unity and economic productivity, particularly during the era of World War II.
Demonizing the enemy: Demonizing the enemy refers to the practice of portraying opponents in a deeply negative light, often depicting them as evil or inhuman. This tactic is used to justify actions taken against the enemy, bolster national morale, and unite people against a common adversary during conflicts like World War II.
Emphasizing the threat to national values and freedoms: This term refers to the practice of highlighting perceived dangers to a nation’s core beliefs and liberties, often to mobilize public support for actions or policies during times of conflict. During World War II, this emphasis played a crucial role in shaping public perception, rallying citizens behind wartime efforts, and justifying decisions such as internment or military aggression against perceived enemies. By framing certain groups or ideologies as threats, governments could rally their populations to defend national identity and security.
Emperor Hirohito's Cult of Emperor Ideology (Japan): Emperor Hirohito's Cult of Emperor Ideology refers to the pervasive belief system in Japan during the early 20th century, which positioned the emperor as a divine figure and a central element of national identity. This ideology was deeply intertwined with militarism and nationalism, contributing to Japan's expansionist policies and participation in World War II. It played a crucial role in mobilizing the Japanese populace and justifying aggressive military actions during the conflict.
Extending propaganda to colonies: Extending propaganda to colonies refers to the strategic use of information, messaging, and media by colonial powers to influence public opinion and maintain control over their overseas territories. This practice was particularly important during World War II, as nations sought to galvanize support for the war effort among colonized populations and reinforce loyalty to the mother country.
Fascism (Italy, Japan): Fascism is a far-right political ideology characterized by authoritarianism, nationalism, and the suppression of political dissent. In both Italy and Japan, fascist regimes emerged in the early 20th century, emphasizing state power, militarism, and the unification of the nation under a strong leader. These regimes played a significant role in shaping the aggressive foreign policies and expansionist goals of their respective countries during World War II.
Firearms Varieties: Firearms varieties refer to the different types of guns and ammunition used during warfare, specifically in World War II, which included handguns, rifles, machine guns, and artillery. Each type of firearm had its own unique design, purpose, and technological advancements that influenced tactics and strategies on the battlefield. These varieties played a crucial role in shaping military engagements and the overall outcome of the war.
France: France is a country in Western Europe known for its rich history, cultural influence, and significant role in global events. Throughout history, France has been a major player in political, social, and economic changes, impacting areas such as industrialization, imperialism, world wars, and decolonization.
Franklin Roosevelt’s Mobilization Strategy: Franklin Roosevelt’s Mobilization Strategy refers to the comprehensive approach taken by the U.S. government under President Franklin D. Roosevelt to prepare the nation for participation in World War II. This strategy included transforming the American economy, ramping up industrial production, and organizing military resources to ensure that the United States could effectively support its allies and equip its armed forces for the conflict ahead.
Germany: Germany is a nation-state in Central Europe that became a unified country in 1871, playing a crucial role in various global events and conflicts from the late 19th century onwards. Its industrial growth, nationalistic movements, and political ambitions significantly influenced the course of European history, particularly during major wars and economic developments.
Island Hopping Strategy: The Island Hopping Strategy was a military tactic employed by Allied forces during World War II to capture strategic islands in the Pacific while bypassing heavily fortified enemy positions. This approach aimed to establish supply bases and airfields that could be used to launch further attacks against Japan, effectively cutting off Japanese resources and weakening their military presence in the region.
Italy: Italy is a European country located in the southern part of the continent, known for its rich history, cultural heritage, and significant influence on world affairs. It played a pivotal role in various historical events, particularly during the rise of nationalism in the 19th century, and became a major player in both World Wars, affecting global politics and conflicts.
Japan: Japan is an island nation in East Asia that underwent significant transformation during the 19th and 20th centuries, especially with its rapid industrialization and emergence as a global power. This transformation connected Japan to broader global developments and conflicts, influencing its political, economic, and military trajectory.
Lend-Lease Act: The Lend-Lease Act was a program initiated by the United States during World War II that allowed the government to supply Allied nations with military equipment, supplies, and support without requiring immediate payment. This act marked a significant shift in U.S. foreign policy from neutrality to active support for nations fighting against Axis powers, facilitating military and economic collaboration that played a crucial role in the overall conduct of the war.
Ministry of Information (Great Britain): The Ministry of Information was a British government department created during World War II to oversee and coordinate propaganda efforts, managing the flow of information to the public and shaping public opinion. Its establishment reflected the importance of information control in maintaining morale and promoting national unity during the war, as well as countering enemy propaganda.
Military Technologies and Tactics: Military technologies and tactics refer to the various tools, weapons, and strategies employed by armed forces to achieve objectives in warfare. This term encompasses advancements such as mechanized infantry, aerial bombardment, and the development of nuclear weapons, as well as strategies like blitzkrieg and amphibious assaults that defined military operations during conflicts. These technologies and tactics played a crucial role in shaping the outcomes of battles and the overall direction of warfare, particularly during World War II.
Mobilizing Populations: Mobilizing populations refers to the process of organizing and preparing a country's citizens for participation in war efforts, including military service, production of war materials, and support on the home front. This concept is crucial during periods of large-scale conflict, particularly during World War II, as nations required full engagement from their citizens to sustain military campaigns and support economic demands.
Momotaro: Sacred Sailors (Japan): Momotaro: Sacred Sailors is a Japanese animated film released in 1945, serving as a propaganda piece during World War II. The story follows Momotaro, a legendary hero who leads a group of animal companions on a quest to defeat evil forces, representing Japan's fight against its enemies in the war. The film combines folklore with nationalistic themes to promote unity and resilience among the Japanese people during a time of conflict.
National Socialism (Germany): National Socialism, often associated with the Nazi Party in Germany, was an extreme political ideology that combined elements of nationalism, racism, and totalitarianism. It emerged in the early 20th century and led to the establishment of a dictatorship under Adolf Hitler, promoting aggressive expansionist policies, anti-Semitism, and militarization, ultimately shaping the course of World War II.
Nazism (Germany): Nazism, or National Socialism, was a totalitarian ideology and political movement led by Adolf Hitler in Germany from the 1920s to the end of World War II in 1945. It emphasized extreme nationalism, racial purity, anti-Semitism, and the establishment of a dictatorial regime. This ideology profoundly shaped Germany's actions and policies during World War II, leading to aggressive expansionism and the perpetration of the Holocaust.
Office of War Information (United States): The Office of War Information (OWI) was a United States government agency created during World War II to coordinate and disseminate information related to the war effort. The OWI aimed to boost morale, promote patriotism, and encourage support for military and home front initiatives through various media, including films, radio broadcasts, and print publications.
Personalizing the war effort: Personalizing the war effort refers to the ways in which individuals and communities were encouraged to feel personally invested in the war during World War II, making it a collective experience that transcended mere military actions. This concept aimed to create a strong emotional connection among civilians, motivating them to contribute actively through various means, such as rationing, buying war bonds, or participating in volunteer programs. By fostering this sense of personal involvement, governments sought to unify society and bolster morale in support of the war effort.
Propaganda Principles: Propaganda principles refer to the techniques and strategies used to influence public opinion and behavior, often during times of conflict or crisis. In the context of World War II, these principles played a crucial role in shaping narratives around the war, mobilizing support for military efforts, and demonizing the enemy. By using various media forms such as posters, films, and radio broadcasts, governments effectively conveyed messages that aimed to unify their populations and instill a sense of purpose.
Schutzstaffel - SS (Germany): The Schutzstaffel, commonly known as the SS, was a major paramilitary organization under Adolf Hitler and the Nazi Party in Germany from the 1920s through the end of World War II. Initially formed as a personal bodyguard for Hitler, the SS grew into one of the most powerful and feared organizations in Nazi Germany, responsible for numerous war crimes and the implementation of the Holocaust.
Soviet Union: The Soviet Union, officially known as the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics (USSR), was a socialist state that existed from 1922 to 1991, encompassing a vast territory across Eastern Europe and Northern Asia. It played a central role in global politics, particularly during the 20th century, influencing ideological conflicts and shaping world events during and after the World Wars.
Tanks: Tanks are heavily armored combat vehicles equipped with large-caliber cannons and tracks for mobility across various terrains. They were introduced during World War I as a response to the stalemate of trench warfare, revolutionizing battlefield tactics and strategies. In World War II, tanks became central to mechanized warfare, providing both firepower and mobility to armies, significantly influencing the outcomes of numerous battles.
United States: The United States is a federal republic established in 1776, formed from thirteen British colonies in North America. It has been a significant player in global politics, economics, and culture, influencing various movements related to nationalism, industrialization, and international conflicts throughout its history.
Using celebrities and popular culture to promote the war effort: This approach refers to the strategic use of famous personalities and elements of popular culture to encourage public support for military campaigns and promote nationalistic sentiments during wartime. This method was prevalent during World War II, where celebrities were enlisted in various propaganda efforts to boost morale, raise funds, and galvanize public participation in the war effort, showcasing the connection between entertainment and national duty.
Using censorship to control the narrative: Using censorship to control the narrative refers to the practice of suppressing or altering information and communication to shape public perception and opinion. During times of conflict, especially in World War II, governments often employed censorship to manage the flow of information, restrict dissent, and promote propaganda that aligned with their objectives. This technique was vital for maintaining morale, ensuring national unity, and controlling how events were portrayed both domestically and internationally.
Winston Churchill’s Leadership: Winston Churchill's leadership refers to his role as the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom during World War II, where he became a symbol of British resilience and determination. His unwavering commitment to victory and his powerful oratory inspired the British people during one of their darkest times, influencing both military strategies and morale. Churchill’s leadership style was characterized by decisiveness, courage, and a strong belief in the necessity of fighting against totalitarianism.
World War II: World War II was a global conflict that lasted from 1939 to 1945, involving most of the world's nations and resulting in significant military, political, and social changes. It was marked by widespread atrocities, the rise of totalitarian regimes, and the use of advanced technology in warfare, ultimately reshaping the global order.