By 1941 Minnesotans had emerged from the dark days of the Great Depression with hope for a brighter future. On December 7th, that hope was dimmed when the Japanese launched a surprise attack on Pearl Harbor, and the United States was drawn into World War II. Just as they had during the Great Depression, Minnesota's Greatest Generation rose up to meet the challenges presented by the war. Read their stories.
Explore Stories
War in Europe
The U.S. was at war in Europe from December 1941 until May 1945.
War in the Pacific
The U.S. entered the war in the Pacific on December 7, 1941.
Serving Stateside
Many Minnesotans worked in the war effort without leaving the United States.
Home Front
Americans who spent the war on the home front experienced sweeping changes that dramatically impacted daily life.