You are a 5th-grade journalist in 1942. The United States has just entered World War II after the attack on Pearl Harbor. Your editor asks you to write an article that shares your opinion about whether America made the right choice to join the war. You must support your opinion using evidence from sources about important World War II leaders and America’s involvement.
Who was the U.S. President when America entered WWII?
Source 2:
World War II Leaders
World War II was a big fight between many countries. It lasted from 1939 to 1945. Different
leaders had important roles during this time. Some leaders were on the side called the Allies, and some were on the side called the Axis. These leaders made big decisions that changed the world.
One of the important Allied leaders was Franklin D. Roosevelt. He was the President of the United States. Roosevelt helped the Allies by giving them supplies even before the U.S. joined the war. He talked to the American people on the radio to get them to support the war. Winston Churchill wasanother Allied leader. He was the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom. Churchill gave great speeches that helped the British people stay strong during tough times. Joseph Stalin was the leader of the Soviet Union. He joined the Allies after Germany attacked his country.
On the other side, there were leaders like Adolf Hitler. He was the leader of Germany. Hitler wanted to take over other countries, and his actions started the war. He had a very strong hold over Germany. Benito Mussolini was the leader of Italy. He joined Hitler in the Axis powers. In Japan, Emperor Hirohito was the leader. Japan also wanted to take over more land.
Later in the war, Harry Truman became the President of the United States after Roosevelt died. Truman had to make the difficult decision to use the atomic bomb to end the war with Japan.
These leaders, from different countries, shaped the events of World War II.
World War II was a difficult time, but it shows how important leaders are in shaping history.
Select all leaders who were part of the Allied Powers:
Put these events in the correct order:
Truman becomes President after Roosevelt
Roosevelt leads the U.S. into WWI
Pearl Harbor is attacked
Match the images of the leaders with their names
| Draggable item | arrow_right_alt | Corresponding Item |
|---|---|---|
| arrow_right_alt | Franklin D. Roosevelt |
| arrow_right_alt | Winston Churchill |
| arrow_right_alt | Joseph Stalin |
Prompt:
Do you believe America was right to become involved in World War II? Write an opinion essay that clearly states your position and supports it with facts and examples from sources about America’s role in the war and the leaders who influenced it. Use at least 3 pieces of evidence and explain your reasoning.
Remember to:
Begin with a clear opinion statement (“I believe…”)
Use evidence from each source type (video, text, image)
Reference at least 3 leaders accurately
Explain reasoning, not just restate facts
Include a concluding restatement of opinion
