Short Answer 
In 1941, President Roosevelt warned about the global threats to democracy posed by the Soviet Union and Communist regimes, which included expansionism, suppression of freedoms, and encouragement of revolutions. He emphasized the need for collective defense among democratic nations to safeguard their values against rising totalitarian ideologies.
Step 1: Understanding the Context
In 1941, President Franklin D. Roosevelt highlighted a critical situation where the democratic way of life was facing significant threats globally. This era was characterized by a growing concern regarding the influence of Communism, particularly from the actions of the Soviet Union. Recognizing this climate was essential in understanding Roosevelt’s warning.
Step 2: Identifying the Threats
Roosevelt’s assertion pointed out that the principle of democracy was under direct assault. The threats came from various actions of Communist regimes, which posed challenges to democratic nations. Key concerns included:
- Expansionist policies of the Soviet Union.
- Suppression of individual freedoms in communist states.
- Encouragement of revolutions against democratic governments.
Step 3: Recognizing the Importance of Defense
Roosevelt’s declaration called for a unified response to defend democracy against these rising threats. The emphasis was on the importance of collective action among democratic nations to protect their values and way of life. This era marked a crucial moment in history, reinforcing the need for cooperation in the face of totalitarian ideologies.