DTW GED PREP

Charles Lindbergh presents several key arguments in opposition to American involvement in the war in Europe. He begins by asserting that the American public was overwhelmingly against entering the conflict when it began. He emphasizes that the United States holds a uniquely strong defensive position and maintains a historical tradition of independence from European affairs. He also references the country’s prior involvement in World War I, suggesting that it failed to bring lasting peace to Europe and led to unresolved debts and political instability.

Lindbergh further claims that certain interest groups, both domestic and international, are pushing for U.S. involvement to serve their own agendas. He criticizes the nation’s military strategy, stating that although the United States produced 5,000 aircraft, most were shipped abroad rather than used to strengthen domestic defenses. As a result, he argues, America is now left with only a few hundred modern bombers—fewer than Germany is capable of producing in a single month.

When analyzing these claims, it is important to assess their validity and the quality of their support. Lindbergh’s first point—that the American public opposed the war—is substantiated by national polling data he cites, which showed that fewer than 10% of Americans favored entering the war in 1939. This claim appears to be based on factual evidence. However, his statements about America’s superior defensive position and political independence from Europe are subjective opinions lacking supporting data.

His assertion regarding the failure of U.S. involvement in World War I is grounded in historical fact, yet it is used to generalize about the likely outcome of future conflicts without considering new circumstances. Furthermore, the claim that unnamed groups are manipulating U.S. foreign policy to serve their own interests is speculative and unsupported by credible evidence. Finally, although Lindbergh’s remarks about aircraft production and availability may reflect real concerns, he does not offer official figures or sources, making it difficult to fully assess the strength of these claims or their relevance as justification for avoiding the war.