The Debate on U.S. Participation in World War II

The American public faced a significant divide over involvement in World War II, with President Franklin Roosevelt advocating for U.S. engagement while many citizens, influenced by the aftermath of World War I and the Great Depression, preferred isolationism. Roosevelt believed that America's involvement was crucial for the nation’s future and its global standing, yet he largely refrained from publicly pushing this agenda until the war escalated. Conversely, aviation hero Charles Lindbergh emerged as a prominent voice against intervention, fostering a large following that shared his sentiments and argued for a focus on domestic issues over European conflicts. Lindbergh's influence was underscored by his status as a national icon, who, though initially supportive of Roosevelt’s policies, later became disillusioned by what he perceived as a push to involve the U.S. in European wars.