In an effort to support the war effort, what actions by the federal government caused the worst fears of many southern whites to be realized?

The nuke sent out on japan.Showed that we were afraid of there capabilities.

The answer to your question is that this spousal obligation continued after death or divorce. On marriage a wife obtained a dower right to the use, for her natural life, of one-third of the husband's property after his death, regardless of any will to the contrary. She retained that right even if he sold the property before he died, unless she specifically relinquished it.