Short Answer 
In 1941, President Roosevelt emphasized the global threats to democracy posed by the rise of Communism, particularly due to Soviet influence. He urged the importance of safeguarding democratic values and advocated for international cooperation to counter authoritarian regimes and promote human rights.
Step 1: Understanding the Threat
In 1941, President Franklin D. Roosevelt highlighted that the democratic way of life was facing significant challenges globally. He pointed to rising threats that stemmed from the spread of Communism, which was notably influenced by the actions of the Soviet Union at that time. This emphasized the urgent need to protect democratic values against authoritarian regimes.
Step 2: Global Context
Roosevelt’s comments came during a period when many countries were under the sway of totalitarian ideologies. The rise of Communism was not just a national concern but had implications worldwide. Key instances of this include:
- The expansion of Soviet influence in Europe.
- The support of communist movements in various nations.
- The establishment of alliances that aimed to undermine democratic institutions.
Step 3: Importance of Democracy
Roosevelt’s statement served as a rallying cry to uphold democracy against the encroaching threats. He believed that maintaining democratic principles was crucial not only for the United States but for the global community. Safeguarding democracy involved:
- Promoting democratic ideals in policymaking.
- Strengthening international alliances to resist authoritarianism.
- Advocating for human rights and freedoms globally.