Final answer:
The Soo Locks were important to protect in World War II because they facilitated the transportation of essential raw materials for the production of weapons, vehicles, and other supplies. They allowed large ships to bypass the rapids and navigate between Lake Superior and the lower Great Lakes, enabling the flow of iron ore from the mines in Minnesota and Michigan to steel mills in cities like Chicago, Detroit, and Cleveland. Protecting the Soo Locks ensured a steady flow of resources to support the war effort.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Soo Locks were important to protect in World War II because they played a crucial role in the transportation of iron ore and other resources between the Great Lakes and the industrial centers of the United States. These locks, located on the St. Mary's River in Michigan, allowed large ships to bypass the rapids and navigate between Lake Superior and the lower Great Lakes. Controlling the Soo Locks was vital for the war effort as they facilitated the transportation of essential raw materials for the production of weapons, vehicles, and other supplies.
For example, iron ore from the mines in Minnesota and Michigan was transported by ships through the Soo Locks to steel mills in cities like Chicago, Detroit, and Cleveland. These steel mills played a crucial role in producing the materials needed for the war effort, including tanks, ships, and airplanes. Protecting the Soo Locks ensured a steady flow of resources to support the production of these essential war materials. In addition, the Great Lakes served as an alternative route for shipping goods between the East Coast and the Midwest, bypassing the heavily patrolled Atlantic Ocean. By controlling the Soo Locks, the United States could ensure the safe passage of vital supplies and prevent any potential disruption by enemy forces.