Arsenal of Democracy

Definition

A phrase used by U.S. President Franklin D. Roosevelt during World War II, describing the United States as a supplier of war materials to Allied nations fighting against Axis powers.

Analogy

Think of the United States as a giant Amazon warehouse during Christmas season. Just like how Amazon supplies gifts to people all over the world, the U.S., as an "Arsenal of Democracy," supplied weapons and other resources to countries fighting against Axis powers in WWII.

Related terms

Lend-Lease Act: This was a law passed in 1941 that allowed the U.S. to lend or lease war supplies to any nation deemed vital for the defense of America.

War Production Board: Established by FDR during WWII, this agency supervised war production, including manufacturing and procurement of war materials.

Selective Service System: The system used in the U.S. for conscription (compulsory enlistment) into military service, particularly active during WWII.