World War II:
Segregation Abroad and at Home
Military policies and general notions regarding race relations were already very prevalent since the First World War. They became even more defined in the pre-war American times. The African American community in America was pushing for equality; to fit in the society. Racial tension swept across the nation like wild fire. Regional phenomena became a nationwide aspect. The white majority kept the two races segregated, in all aspects of the society. The term "Separate but equal" made famous by the United States Supreme Court case Plessy v. Ferguson remained instantiated as the law of the land in reference to racial policy. This concept of keeping both races segregated had permeated across the United States and was the prominent view of most white citizens during this period. Segregation was seen—from a white point-of-view—as a way for both races to live within the society without racial conflict and tension. Separation of blacks and whites stretched across all societal institutions, including the United States Military. African Americans did not receive the same rights and freedoms that their white counterparts did. Moreover, they were discriminated against, physically abused, and were seen as less than American; and even worse, less than human. Despite all of the injustices against them, they still served and remained loyal to their country. They sought both equality and victory during World War II.
The Home Front
African Americans had suffered profoundly in the Great Depression. Already at the bottom of the economic ladder when it began, the Depression reinforced the poverty of Black America. The black community people were mostly involved with share-cropping and mining jobs. The government then started the process of mechanization in industries. There were increased government funds for improved equipment. This factor eliminated many jobs in general in industry. The decline in industrial output combined with...