WW1 The Beginning and US Entrance
The Stage is Set for War 8/14/1914: 8 European Nations at war Central Powers: Germany Austria-Hungary Italy Allied Powers Great Britain France Serbia Belgium Russia Participant Countries in World War I Allies Central Powers Neutral
The United States Neutral Sold to both sides Germany accuses of favoritism Britain/Germany Want US to stop supplying other Set up war zones in Atlantic Prevent ships from entering No supplies to enemy The United States
The War Begins August 1914: Millions to war Soldiers: “home by Christmas” Ruins of Ypres
Eastern Front 8/17/1914: Russia invaded E. Prussia Germany: counter offensive, pushback Attack/Counter-attack continues for 2 years Allies: poorly prepared No advantages Austria-Hungary Germany Russia and Serbia
Propaganda
The Great War Firsts “World War” “Total War” 30+ countries declare war Many more indirectly (supplies, troops, etc) “Total War” All aspects of citizen life affected Soldiers Rations Propaganda Governments take over economy “Modern War” New Fighting Style New Technology
The Zimmerman Telegram Sent by State Secretary for Foreign Affairs Arthur Zimmerman Intercepted by British Intelligence Informed US Document sent to newspapers, made public Americans upset Multiple events (sinking ships) Often seen as main cause/final straw