Effects of World War II wartime on African Americans
What effect did the World War II wartime experience have on African Americans? Did their experiences help or hinder the progress toward equality in America? How were they treated during World War II? Did the government take any steps to ease discrimination against African Americans in war industries?
Effects of World War II wartime on African Americans
Centuries of prejudice and discrimination against blacks fueled the civil rights crusade, but World War II and its aftermath were arguably the main catalysts. Prior to World II, about 4,000 blacks served in the armed forces. By the war`s end, that number had grown to over 1.2 million, though the military remained segregated. As Whites at home went to war, blacks left behind had access to manufacturing jobs previously unavailable to them. They learned new skills, joined unions and became part of the industrial workforce. The “Double V Campaign” fought for victory at home and abroad.
