This activity explores the causes of World War II, the role of alliances, and the United States’ path from neutrality to war. Students will analyze a historical political cartoon, examine the rise of the Axis and Allied Powers, and investigate why the U.S. initially stayed out of the conflict. The resource highlights key events like Germany’s invasion of Poland, the attack on Pearl Harbor, and the Lend-Lease Act. It also emphasizes how fear, aggression, and global alliances shaped the outbreak of war, encouraging students to think critically about leadership, national security, and the impact of entering a global conflict.

Included in this resource:

Do Now - “Waiting for the Signal from Home” 1942 primary source political cartoon analysis with scaffolding questions
Causes, Alliances, and Rising Tensions reading passage with corresponding scaffolding questions
Application/Closing/Higher-Order Thinking Assessment: How did the United States’ entry into World War II change the direction of the war?
Answer key for teachers (suggested)

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