Question

Why was there a change in the attitude of the American government towards racial discrimination after the Second World War?

Answer 1

There are several reasons that led to the change in the attitude of the American government towards racial discrimination after World War II which were as follows:

1. The Allied Powers led by the USA claimed that they fought for democracy, equality and liberty and against the racial discrimination promoted by the Nazis in World War II. Thus after the war, the US changed their policies and attitude towards racial discrimination.
2. Numerous campaigns were started by the black people for demanding equal rights and liberties as enjoyed by the white citizens. Their demands pressurised the government to initiate policies for abolishing racial discrimination.
3. America became the leader of the western world and for improving its image it had to end discrimination based on race from its society. The newly emerged third world nations' support could weaken towards the USSR due to the prevailing discrimination in the US society.