African Americans served in large numbers in the war, but they were relegated to segregated forces, and their lives were largely unchanged after returning to America. The disparity they observed in the increased benefits for their white compatriots was one of the things that spurred the civil rights movement in coming decades. Many African Americans who did not join the military migrated North in search of manufacturing jobs in cities, thus beginning the Great Migration.
Native Americans saw little, if any, change overall. While they served alongside the white Americans, even in an integrated force, they came home to the same situation as before, virtually unchanged—relegated to reservations.
Mexican Americans served in the war as well, but they witnessed a similar experience as Native Americans. There was little change after serving alongside white countrymen in their situation.
Women likely saw the largest impact. They came out in droves to work in manufacturing and industrial jobs, opening up entirely new avenues for them to pursue as careers and starting the more modern idea of the "working woman." They were seen as contributing to the war effort, and therefore women gained more prominence and respect in society outside of the domestic sphere.
Despite the overall boost to women's status in the United States, white women were more often the recipients of that benefit. Black women were still subject to both the sexist aspects of American society and the racist ones that led to the civil rights movement.
Further, don't forget the Japanese Americans who were imprisoned in camps (most commonly referred to as "internment" camps) for the duration of the war. Racism against Japanese Americans led to a complicity in this injustice that has led to these camps often being overlooked even today.
World War II was responsible for changing nearly every facet of American life, particularly for women. With their men away and many not returning, women needed to support their families. With the men away, factories needed women to work. As women entered the workforce, they gained an independence which would only grow from that point onward. They became an integral part of society rather than just playing a supporting role to the men.
You have a lot of information requested here and I have limited space, so I'll get you started on each and you'll need to expand on them somewhat.
African-Americans - Still segregated in US and military, fought for a country that denied them equal status, worked in larger numbers in factories.
Native Americans - Served in the military in numbers greater than their percentage of the population, but unlike other minorities, were integrated into white units. Reservation life was largely unchanged.
Women - Made a major contribution on the Home Front in industrial production, taking over jobs vacated by men, and in hospitals and nursing positions. Served in various capacities but not in the military yet. Raised families alone, almost every family had at least one member in the military.
Mexican-Americans - Also served in the military in integrated units with whites. Bracero program introduced to import guest agricultural workers from Mexico.
Get Ahead with eNotes
Start your 48-hour free trial to access everything you need to rise to the top of the class. Enjoy expert answers and study guides ad-free and take your learning to the next level.
Already a member? Log in here.