Essay The Roles of Congress In World Wars I and II

The law making body of the United States of America faces some of its most trying moments during war time. There are several factors to take into account when the threat of war looms. At the time of World War I, the United States was in a period of isolationism, where foreign affairs were of little importance to the country. When war broke out overseas, America was determined to maintain neutrality. While doing so however, it was also imperative to prepare for war, should the U.S be pulled in somehow. When it was forced to go to war, a strategy for success in the war needed to be thought out. For these reasons, Congress played a significant role in the war. This importance of Congress was also proved by its role in World War II. Congress’s†¦show more content†¦In passing this act, Congress ensured the Allies what they desperately needed: enough troops to defeat the Central Powers (1). Neutrality and preparedness in World War II were approached in similar and differing ways. In the Second World War, neutrality was left to Congress to proclaim with its various Neutrality Acts from 1935-1939. In 1935, Congress hoped to isolate the U.S, thereby, preventing U.S interference or assistance overseas (8). By 1939, however, Congress would be less restrictive and allow for the selling of munitions to nations at war in exchange for cash. These nations would be forced to retrieve the goods, ensuring that no U.S ships could be sunk by U-boats and thus causing U.S entry into the war (class notes 1/2/12). Despite these efforts to remain neutral, it seemed that America would be entering the war soon, therefore, the Selective Training and Service Act was passed in 1940 drafting men ages 21-35, and later requiring all men ages 18-65 to register (1). Also in preparing for the war the Military Industrial Congressional Complex was formed. An economic and administrative method for the production and use of weapons, this group helped to further enhance the army. Thirty six billion dollars were given to the War Department through this system (6). Congress also made an effort to aid allies overseas as it had in World War I. In passing the Lend-Lease Act of 1941, Britain was able to obtain the supplies it needed to fight (7). Congress atShow MoreRelatedAmerican Foreign Policy During World War II1565 Words   |  7 Pagesdigression from Washington’s doctrine. After World War I and before the impending Second World War, American politics and foreign policy divided between the two aforementioned extremes. From 1935 to 1941, many American politicians and political parties opposed American participation in a Second World War and returned to America’s isolationist roots, influencing the President and the nation as a whole. 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