Final answer:
The author Bruchac suggests that the Diné (Navajo) language helped 'turn the tide' in World War II by enabling unbreakable communications among Allied forces. The Navajo code talkers used their language to create a military code that was critical in securing victories in the Pacific Theater. The 'tide' refers to a pivotal change that led to the ultimate success of the Allies.
Step-by-step explanation:
How Diné (Navajo) Language Turned the Tide in World War II
When Bruchac refers to the phrase “turn the tide,” he means a pivotal change in the course of an event that leads to an opposite outcome. In the context of World War II, the Diné language, more commonly known as Navajo, played a crucial role in this turning point for the Allied forces. The Navajo code talkers were instrumental in creating an unbreakable code used for strategic military communication, making significant contributions to winning key battles in the Pacific Theater.
Despite the previous forced acculturation efforts which included being told to forget their native languages, the unique complexity of the Navajo language proved to be a strategic asset. It was almost impossible for the Axis powers to decipher. Native American code talkers, including but not limited to Navajo, saved countless lives and hastened the end of the war by allowing secure and swift communication.
The Navajo code talkers had to endure intense training and memorized extensive codes to ensure accurate message transmission without any written records. Words like “iron fish” were used for “submarine,” and a creative adaptation of Navajo words symbolized English letters when spelling out locations; this was crucial to maintaining the secrecy and speed of Allied communications. Their dedication and intelligence were a testament to the cultural preservation and educational programs implemented in earlier decades.
As the war progressed, the impact of the code talkers was acknowledged as indispensable, with their efforts contributing to several key victories. Their unique linguistic contributions played a part in the Allies gaining the upper hand, thereby “turning the tide” against the Axis powers in World War II.