托福背景材料：第二次世界大戰(zhàn)的美國

托?？荚囍?，閱讀部分的題量大、文章長,、題材廣泛,，涉及各類學(xué)科領(lǐng)域。雖然官方并不要求考生對這些領(lǐng)域有深入了解,，但了解相關(guān)背景知識將有助于提高閱讀速度和準確性,。因此，掌握一些關(guān)于第二次世界大戰(zhàn)的美國的背景信息非常必要,，這不僅能幫助備考托福閱讀,，也能豐富考生的知識面。

美國在第二次世界大戰(zhàn)期間

1939年9月，德國對波蘭的進攻標志著第二次世界大戰(zhàn)的全面爆發(fā),。1941年3月,，羅斯福總統(tǒng)簽署了《租借法》,，向反對德意日的國家提供支持,。8月14日，羅斯福與英國首相丘吉爾共同發(fā)布了《大西洋憲章》,，隨后蘇聯(lián)也表示同意其基本原則，并召開了莫斯科三國會議,，以奠定美英蘇的戰(zhàn)時合作基礎(chǔ),。1941年12月7日，日本襲擊珍珠港,，導(dǎo)致美國對日本宣戰(zhàn),。

1942年5月，在中途島海戰(zhàn)中,，美軍成功擊退了日軍,，隨后在瓜達爾卡納爾島戰(zhàn)役中轉(zhuǎn)守為攻，太平洋戰(zhàn)爭出現(xiàn)了轉(zhuǎn)折,。1942年1月1日,，美、英,、蘇等26國簽署了《聯(lián)合國家宣言》,。同年8月，英美聯(lián)軍在北非成功登陸,。1943年,，斯大林格勒戰(zhàn)役的勝利改變了歐洲反法西斯戰(zhàn)爭的局勢。

1944年6月,，盟軍在法國諾曼底展開登陸,，開辟了歐洲戰(zhàn)場的新戰(zhàn)線。1945年4月,，羅斯福逝世,，由杜魯門繼任。5月,，德國無條件投降,，隨后美英蘇三國在波茨坦會議上就戰(zhàn)后安排達成協(xié)議。8月6日,，美國在廣島投下原子彈,，接著又在長崎投下第二顆原子彈，最終導(dǎo)致日本宣布投降，第二次世界大戰(zhàn)宣告結(jié)束,。

戰(zhàn)后美國的發(fā)展

在第二次世界大戰(zhàn)后,，美國因其在戰(zhàn)爭中的擴軍和物資供應(yīng)而迎來了經(jīng)濟繁榮，成為全球重要的軍事基地,。杜魯門政府推行冷戰(zhàn)政策,，提出杜魯門主義，并制定馬歇爾計劃,，建立北大西洋公約組織,。在內(nèi)政方面，盡管杜魯門嘗試實施“公平施政”綱領(lǐng),，但效果有限,。

1950年，朝鮮戰(zhàn)爭爆發(fā),，艾森豪威爾在1952年當選總統(tǒng),，并承諾結(jié)束戰(zhàn)爭。艾森豪威爾政府在經(jīng)濟危機中進行調(diào)整,，擴大社會保險,，發(fā)展宇航事業(yè)。1960年代,，民權(quán)運動蓬勃發(fā)展,，1964年國會通過民權(quán)法，推動了社會變革,。

1970年代,，尼克松執(zhí)政后，美國陷入越南戰(zhàn)爭的泥潭,，財政赤字和軍費開支加劇了經(jīng)濟壓力,。1980年代，里根政府推行高赤字財政政策,，刺激經(jīng)濟復(fù)蘇,。1990年，海灣戰(zhàn)爭爆發(fā),，美國出兵伊拉克,，迫使其退出科威特。

結(jié)論

通過了解第二次世界大戰(zhàn)期間及戰(zhàn)后美國的歷史背景,，考生可以更好地把握相關(guān)托福閱讀材料,。這不僅有助于提高考試成績，也能深化對美國歷史的理解,。

托福背景材料：第二次世界大戰(zhàn)的美國

Understanding the Historical Context of World War II in the United States ??

For TOEFL test-takers, grasping the historical context of significant events like World War II is crucial. The United States played a pivotal role in this global conflict, and understanding its background can enhance your comprehension skills for both reading and listening sections.

The Prelude to War ??

Before the U.S. entered WWII, several key factors contributed to the growing tensions. The rise of totalitarian regimes in Europe, particularly Nazi Germany under Adolf Hitler, and Fascist Italy led to widespread instability. Additionally, Japan's expansionist policies in Asia created further unrest. The U.S. initially adopted a policy of isolationism, focusing on domestic issues during the Great Depression. However, as the war escalated, it became increasingly difficult to remain uninvolved.

The Attack on Pearl Harbor ?????

On December 7, 1941, the Japanese attacked Pearl Harbor, a U.S. naval base in Hawaii. This surprise attack resulted in significant loss of life and damage to the Pacific Fleet, prompting President Franklin D. Roosevelt to declare war on Japan the following day. This event marked a turning point, as the U.S. fully committed to the Allied cause against the Axis powers.

The Home Front ??

The war effort required mobilization on an unprecedented scale. The U.S. government implemented measures to support the military, such as rationing supplies and promoting war bonds. Women entered the workforce in large numbers, taking on roles traditionally held by men. The iconic figure of "Rosie the Riveter" symbolized this shift, representing women's contributions to the war effort.

Military Engagements ?

The U.S. participated in several key battles during WWII, including the D-Day invasion of Normandy in June 1944. This operation was crucial in establishing a foothold in Europe and ultimately led to the liberation of Western Europe from Nazi control. The Pacific Theater also saw intense fighting, with significant battles such as Midway and Iwo Jima showcasing the bravery and determination of American forces.

Post-War Impact ??

Following the war, the United States emerged as a global superpower. The economic boom that followed contributed to the establishment of a prosperous middle class. Additionally, the creation of the United Nations aimed to prevent future conflicts and promote international cooperation. However, the war also left deep scars, including the ethical implications of the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, which remain subjects of debate today.

Key Vocabulary for TOEFL Preparation ??

• Isolationism: A policy of remaining apart from the affairs or interests of other groups.
• Mobilization: The act of assembling and making both troops and supplies ready for war.
• Allied Powers: The coalition of countries, including the U.S., Britain, and the Soviet Union, that opposed the Axis Powers.
• Axis Powers: The alliance of Germany, Italy, and Japan during WWII.
• Superpower: A very powerful and influential nation.

Practice Questions ?

1. What were the main factors that led to the U.S. involvement in WWII?
2. Discuss the significance of the attack on Pearl Harbor.
3. How did the war impact American society on the home front?
4. What were the consequences of the U.S. emerging as a superpower after the war?

By familiarizing yourself with these historical contexts and vocabulary, you will be better prepared for the TOEFL exam. Understanding the complexities of events like World War II not only enhances your knowledge but also improves your analytical skills, which are essential for success in the test. Good luck! ??

World War II had a profound impact on the United States, reshaping its economy, society, and position on the global stage. For TOEFL test-takers, understanding these changes can provide valuable context for both writing and speaking tasks. Let's explore some key areas where WWII influenced the U.S. ????

1. Economic Transformation ??

Before the war, the U.S. was still recovering from the Great Depression. However, the demand for war supplies led to a significant economic boom. Factories shifted from producing consumer goods to manufacturing military equipment, creating millions of jobs. This shift not only reduced unemployment but also stimulated technological advancements. The introduction of assembly line techniques in factories improved efficiency and productivity, laying the groundwork for future industrial growth.

2. Social Changes ?????

WWII also brought about notable social changes, particularly regarding gender roles. With many men serving in the military, women entered the workforce in unprecedented numbers, taking on roles traditionally held by men. This shift was epitomized by the cultural icon Rosie the Riveter, symbolizing women's contributions to the war effort. After the war, while many women returned to domestic roles, the experience laid the foundation for the feminist movements of the 1960s and 1970s, advocating for women's rights and equality.

3. Civil Rights Movement ?

The war also set the stage for the Civil Rights Movement. African Americans served valiantly in the military but returned home to face segregation and discrimination. The contradiction between fighting for freedom abroad while being denied rights at home sparked a desire for change. Organizations like the NAACP gained momentum, leading to significant legal and social advancements in the following decades. The post-war period saw the beginning of desegregation efforts, culminating in landmark legislation in the 1960s.

4. Global Superpower Status ??

Following WWII, the United States emerged as one of the two dominant superpowers, alongside the Soviet Union. This new status changed the dynamics of international relations, leading to the Cold War era. The U.S. took on a leadership role in establishing international organizations, such as the United Nations and NATO, aimed at promoting peace and security. This involvement marked a shift from isolationism to active participation in global affairs, influencing U.S. foreign policy for decades.

5. Technological Advancements ??

The war accelerated technological innovation in various fields. The Manhattan Project, which developed the atomic bomb, is perhaps the most famous example. However, other advancements included radar technology, jet engines, and medical innovations like antibiotics. These developments not only played a crucial role during the war but also contributed to the post-war economic boom and improved quality of life for many Americans.

6. Cultural Shifts ??

Finally, WWII impacted American culture significantly. The experiences of soldiers and civilians during the war influenced literature, film, and art. Movies depicting war stories became popular, shaping public perception and understanding of the conflict. Additionally, the return of soldiers brought new perspectives on life, leading to changes in societal values and norms that would resonate through the following decades.

In conclusion, World War II was a turning point for the United States, affecting its economy, society, and global standing. Understanding these impacts can enrich your knowledge and provide context for discussions in your TOEFL exam. By recognizing the complexities of this historical event, you can better articulate your thoughts and insights, enhancing your performance in both writing and speaking sections. Good luck! ??