CLEP US History II Practice Test

The strategy that Franklin D. Roosevelt (FDR) and Winston Churchill agreed upon during World War II was to prioritize defeating Germany first before addressing the situation with Japan. This decision stemmed from the belief that Germany posed a greater threat to Allied interests in Europe and was essential for maintaining stability on that continent. Both leaders recognized that a well-coordinated effort against Germany was crucial to ensure that the Axis powers could not regain momentum or consolidate their control in Europe, which would subsequently assist in ultimately confronting Japan in the Pacific. This "Germany First" strategy was formalized during several meetings between the two leaders, including the Arcadia Conference in December 1941, shortly after the attack on Pearl Harbor. By focusing on Germany and the European theater, the Allies aimed to secure victory in Europe, which would then allow them to shift more attention and resources to the fight against Japan in the Pacific, thus ensuring a more effective and concentrated war effort. This strategy shaped the early stages of Allied military operations throughout the war.