Question

What indicators were there that public opinion was shifting away from American isolationism

Answer 1

Indicators of shifts in American public opinion away from isolationism included the impact of the Nye Committee's findings, the passage of the Neutrality Acts, and changing attitudes towards globalization and its impact on the U.S. job market and military capabilities, alongside fluctuations in political party positions on trade and foreign affairs.

Step-by-step explanation:

The question explores the shift in public opinion away from American isolationism. During the 1920s and 1930s, America had a strong isolationist policy, largely influenced by the memories of World War I and the Great Depression. However, there were signs that public opinion was beginning to change. Crucial indicators included the Nye Committee findings, which despite not proving munitions makers' influence, sparked an anti-war sentiment; further evidence was the passage of the Neutrality Acts which reflected this isolationist stance but also highlighted a reluctance for future war engagement. From the late 1970s onward, there were concerns regarding globalization's impact on jobs and U.S. military capabilities, suggesting apprehension towards continued non-engagement. Additionally, shifts were observed among the political parties and their stances on foreign engagement and trade policies, as seen with varied reactions to President Trump's withdrawal from the TPP. These events collectively indicate a complex evolution of American public opinion on the role of the U.S. in global affairs.

Answer 2

One of the most significant indicators that public opinion was shifting away from American isolationism in the years leading up to the US entering World War II, was that Americans began to be comfortable with the US sending military aid to countries like Great Britain.