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Embargo
A government order restricting trade, used by the United States to limit Japan’s access to oil and war materials.
Isolationism
A foreign policy stance of avoiding involvement in international affairs, alliances, and conflicts. In the 1930s, the United States pursued isolationism through the Neutrality Acts, refusing to intervene in European and Asian crises.
Lend-Lease
A US programme enacted in March 1941 that allowed the president to supply military aid to nations deemed vital to American defence. It provided billions of dollars in equipment to Britain, the Soviet Union, China, and other Allied powers without requiring immediate payment.
Pearl Harbor
A US naval base on the island of Oahu, Hawaii, that was attacked by Japan on 7 December 1941. The surprise assault killed 2,403 Americans and damaged or sank 8 battleships, bringing the United States into the Second World War.
Tripartite Pact
A military alliance signed on 27 September 1940 between Germany, Italy, and Japan. Each signatory agreed to assist the others if attacked by a power not already involved in the European or Sino-Japanese wars, primarily aimed at deterring US intervention.
Ultimatum
a final demand or statement of terms issued by one party to another, with the threat of serious consequences if the terms are not accepted.