"You could tell that America was gearing up for war"

In this quote, Jack Adams is explaining the atmosphere in America leading up to a possible war. Making use of the phrase "preparing" suggests that the country was actively preparing for dispute, both mentally and physically. This might imply that there was a sense of tension and anticipation in the air, as individuals braced themselves for the possibility of war. It might likewise imply that the government and military were making tactical plans and activating resources in preparation for fight. Overall, the quote paints an image of a nation on edge, preparing itself for the potential mayhem and damage of war.