Native American Contribution in World War II

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What event prompted the United States to enter World War II?

The attack on Pearl Harbor on Dec. 7, 1941

What was the unique response of Native Americans to the call to arms after the attack on Pearl Harbor?

They assembled quickly to the defense of their country and were the largest contributors per capita to the armed forces.

What percentage of the Native American population and able-bodied men served in the armed forces during World War II?

Over 10 percent of the population and a third of the able-bodied men between ages 18 and 50.

How many reservation Natives and off-reservation Natives had served by the end of World War II?

Over 24,000 reservation Natives and another 20,000 off-reservation Natives. Signup and view all the answers

What were some of the distinguished medals and honors awarded to Native Americans for their service during WWII?

Purple Hearts, Distinguished Flying Crosses, Bronze Stars, Silver Stars, Air Medals, Distinguished Service Crosses, and three Congressional Medals of Honor Signup and view all the answers

Which tribes had members who served as Code Talkers during WWII?

Navajo and Choctaw Signup and view all the answers

What was the role of the Navajo Code Talkers during WWII?

They used their language to create an unbreakable code for transmitting secret military messages. Signup and view all the answers

Why did the Germans infiltrate some of the tribes in the 1930s?

To try to learn the language of the tribes and prevent a repeat of their role in WWI. Signup and view all the answers

What impact did WWII have on the lives of Native Americans?

It marked a major break from the past, causing disruption in their lives and affecting their habits, views, and economic well-being. Signup and view all the answers

What was the significance of the Navajo language in the role of the Code Talkers?

It was an oral language with no written form, making it unbreakable by the Japanese. Signup and view all the answers

What were some of the roles Native American women took on during WWII?

Members of the WAVES, WACS, and Army Nurse Corps, as well as taking over roles such as farmers, mechanics, lumberjacks, and delivery personnel on the home front. Signup and view all the answers

How were Native American children educated during WWII?

Many were taken to nonnative schools to be taught and educated, where they were punished for speaking their native tongue. Signup and view all the answers

What was the attitude of the Natives towards defending their land during WWII?

They were willing to overlook years of disappointments and resentments to defend their own land, understanding the importance of doing so. Signup and view all the answers

What was the impact of WWII on the lives of Native Americans after the war?

Many remained in the cities but a large number returned to the reservations, finding that they could live in both worlds. Signup and view all the answers

What was the view of the Marines towards the abilities of Native Americans during WWII?

The Marines had great respect for the “warrior” abilities of the Natives, who distinguished themselves in all branches of the service. Signup and view all the answers

What was the role of Native American men and women in the armed forces during WWII?

Native American men served on all fronts and many received distinguished medals and honors, while Native women served in various capacities including as members of the WAVES, WACS, and Army Nurse Corps. Signup and view all the answers

Native American Contribution in World War II

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