The consequences of war are detrimental to everyone, not only those who are fighting in the frontline. But in some cases, these effects are extended into something quite unfathomable.
Racism and segregation are both concepts that are still fresh in the minds of those who fought against it. But, how did the rulers of the day dealing with these concepts in the face of WWII? Did they unite? Were they concerned about the aftermath of the current racial war?
The aftermath of WWII did not only leave 6 million Jewish bodies in mass graves. Oh no, it also led to an increase in racial profiling and discrimination in the United States. Several racial riots took place during the war, fighting for equal rights.
In this post, we uncover some of the atrocities that took place during this travesty and still has an impact on society and discrimination today.
1942: Racism Prevails in War
Looking back to 1941, the United States was known as a racist country where segregation was prevalent. It is also well known that the government and military of this time were openly racist and held racist beliefs. This was in strong contrast to European countries.
Segregated Armed Forces in the US
These beliefs were so strong, that the troops sent to Europe by the American government were segregated. Men of colour were not allowed to be in combat and had to fill menial roles while abroad during the war in Europe.
1944: Charges of Rape and Violence
It is a well-known fact that the troops sent to Europe were alleged to rape and pillage European cities and towns. Even though this was the fact and not uncommon, the horrific deeds were not treated seriously, and black troops were blamed unfairly.
Myths Exaggerated and Spread
Soldiers of colour were convicted of rape, and as the war raged on rumours and myths spread throughout America. The military used these myths to their advantage as propaganda and reinforced the race wars and riots in the United States at that time.
WWII: Racial War
Ultimately, WWII was a racial war. Adolf Hitler declared war on all Jews and ended up committing genocide of millions of Jews. Even though his vision and ideology were frowned upon by the US and other countries, they were waging a racial war of their own.
Sex, Race and Wartime Politics
It is said that sex and race were used during WWII as wartime politics to spread propaganda and even encourage racist behaviour amongst troops and civilians. The result of these horrific transgressions can still be seen and experienced in the United States today.
Racism and warfare are concepts that go hand in hand. During the tumultuous time of WWII, the United States faced many civil rights movements and riots. Even though racism is still prevalent today, we’ve come a long way since then.
Thanks to the actions of several civil rights figures, people of colour and other races in the United States can enjoy the same rights as everyone else living in the country.
Do you know of someone who needs professional help to deal with discrimination? Encourage them to speak to a professional counsellor here at Nion.
