Best Animated Short - 1942

1942. For all intents and purposes, many Americans probably believe that World War II began around this time. Never mind that there has been fighting in Europe for three years and in Asia for over a decade, but 1942 is significant for being the first full year of involvement by the United States of America, and that's when stuff got real. Because America!

Yeah...I'm sure that's how the Europeans and Asians view Americans. Oh well.

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Module 6: Toons Go to War

America's entry into World War II was a seminal moment in the country's history. It not only lifted the nation out of the depths of the Great Depression, but it also drastically changed the dynamics of the animation industry. Animation studios began dedicating their time and energy in making propaganda films to promote the support for war efforts and poke fun at America's enemies. Of course, the latter also became a controversial issue in today's politically correct society. Stereotypical caricatures are no longer seen as amusing but offensive, whether it's our wartime enemies or minority populations within our country's borders.

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