The Great Arsenal of Democracy: Isolationism Quotes
How we cite our quotes: (Sentence)
Quote #1
Some of our people like to believe that wars in Europe and in Asia are of no concern to us. But it is a matter of most vital concern to us that European and Asiatic war-makers should not gain control of the oceans that lead to this hemisphere. (24-25)
You know your geography, so you're probably already aware that the Atlantic Ocean and the Pacific Ocean act as pretty large natural boundaries between Europe and Asia. They're what have kept us safe from invasion throughout history, and they've also provided a way for us to keep our noses out of other people's business. That wouldn't be the case if the Axis had control over the oceans—we wouldn't be isolated from the problem anymore, and if it comes to that point, none of our allies would be left to help us out.
(Psst: Philip K. Dick wrote a great novel about an alternate reality in which the Axis won World War II called The Man in the High Castle. Check it out.)
Quote #2
Does anyone seriously believe that we need to fear attack anywhere in the Americas while a free Britain remains our most powerful naval neighbor in the Atlantic? And does anyone seriously believe, on the other hand, that we could rest easy if the Axis powers were our neighbors there? (30-31)
World War II is known as "the last good war," because the fighting led to an increase in economic production and put a stop to the Great Depression. But more importantly, everyone was united against a common enemy, this power-crazy group of people who were determined to enslave entire populations and get rid of freedom and equality.
All the good guys were fighting to prevent this from happening, so if one group fell—particularly the British, who were our strongest ally and the strongest power in Europe—the United States didn't stand a chance, so we couldn't really pretend what was happening didn't affect us.
Quote #3
The American appeasers ignore the warning to be found in the fate of Austria, Czechoslovakia, Poland, Norway, Belgium, the Netherland, Denmark, and France. (96)
As if Americans needed any further proof the Germans weren't messing around, they'd already wreaked havoc all over continental Europe. Millions of innocent people were displaced and hurt, and we know now that large amounts of Jews and other "inferior" populations were sent to concentration camps.
FDR was trying to make it clear that these people—some of which lived in countries who placed high value on freedom and independence—were falling victim to the Axis agenda, and the Americans had a responsibility, both as the largest democratic country in the world and as human beings, to do something to help.
Quote #4
I make the direct statement to the American people that there is far less chance of the United States getting into war if we do all we can now to support the nations defending themselves against attack by the Axis than if we acquiesce in their defeat, submit tamely to an Axis victory, and wait our turn to be the object of attack in another war later on. (115)
Okay, people—FDR is very clear on the fact that avoiding U.S. involvement in the war is what everybody wants. And he's on board, at least to a degree. His goal isn't to send American troops overseas, but he does want U.S. industry to step up its game and get the Allies the supplies they need. It's the best way to prevent the United States from being part of the physical fighting. Complete isolation just isn't an option.
Quote #5
The British have received invaluable military support from the heroic Greek Army and from the forces of all the governments in exile. Their strength is growing. It is the strength of men and women who value their freedom more highly than they value their lives. (179-181)
The desire for freedom is universal—doesn't matter who you are or where you come from. If everyone wants that same thing, Americans have a responsibility as the largest free nation in the world to do whatever's necessary to help. The resistance is getting stronger, and that's because so many people, like the Greeks and other governments in exile, are coming together to fight. The U.S. needs to jump on the bandwagon and join the party.