Why did the US fight a war for democracy with a segregated military?

The U.S. fought a war for democracy during World War II while maintaining a segregated military due to prevailing racial attitudes and systemic racism at the time. Many leaders believed that integrating the military would undermine cohesion and effectiveness, despite the contributions of African American soldiers. This contradiction highlighted the complexities of American democracy and the struggle for civil rights, as many African Americans fought not only against fascism abroad but also for their own rights at home. The war ultimately intensified calls for integration and civil rights reforms in the post-war era.