Effects of World War I

Ending the War An armistice or cease-fire was signed on November 11, 1918. The peace terms would be decided by the winning side, which included Britain, France, Italy and the United States.

Woodrow Wilson’s plan for peace was called the Fourteen Points; this plan called for forgiveness and avoided revenge. He wanted to attack the factors that led to the war in the first place. Among the points were: No secret treaties Freedom of the seas Self-determination (independence) for colonial possessions A League of Nations to work out international problems.

Wilson’s 14 Points A Plan for Permanent World Peace Remember the M.A.I.N Causes of WWI? Well, President Wilson would offer solutions to these causes to prevent future worldwide wars with the proposal of 14 points that fit under 4 ideals: D.I.P.S.

Imperialism  Democracy Democracy: Wilson thought that the people of colonized nations had a right to a voice through independent democratic governments instead of being ruled and controlled by European Imperialism. This would get rid of competition between empires. Alliances  Internationalism Internationalism: Wilson believed that working together with other nations and discussing international issues publicly would prevent secret Alliances. He calls for a League of Nations. Militarism  Peace Peace: Wilson believed that instead of Militarism (using force to solve problems) countries should promote peace, free trade, diplomacy, and disarm their military. Nationalism  Self-Determination Self-Determination: Wilson believed that ethnic groups in Central Europe should not be oppressed as a result of extreme Nationalism of European empires, but that they should be able to determine their own status/borders/government as a people.

The other Allies refused to go along with Wilson’s lenient plan; the only item that they would agree to was the formation of a League of Nations. Instead they wanted a harsh treaty that would punish the enemy.

The Treaty of Versailles punished Germany and the Central Powers by taking away territory, destroying Germany’s military, making them pay reparations (covering the costs of the war), and taking the blame for the war.

The American Senate (led by Senator Henry Cabot Lodge) refused to ratify the Treaty of Versailles because it was too harsh and also they didn’t want to join the League of Nations and risk getting involved in another foreign war.

Social: almost 10 million soldiers were killed and over 20 million are wounded millions of civilians died as a result of the hostilities, famine, and disease the world was left with hatred, intolerance, and extreme nationalism. Rise of the KKK- it became more acceptable to hate foreigners.

The Bolshevik Revolution in Russia in 1917 had people worried The Bolshevik Revolution in Russia in 1917 had people worried. People feared the spread of Communism. Becomes known as The Red Scare (color associated w/communists). Labor unions were hurt because of their association with communism.

Political: U. S. emerges as a world power because of the assumption of international responsibilities. The US withdrew from European affairs after World War I to focus on domestic growth and colonial gains. (Isolationism)

US Attorney General Mitchell Palmer ordered Federal Agents to enter homes of suspected communists without search warrants; jailed individuals without charges, and refused lawyers – all violations of basic civil rights. Became known as Palmer Raids!

* US restricts immigration quotas due to the fear of communists and European extremists.