World War I & Georgia SS8H7 The student will evaluate key political, social, and economic changes that occurred in Georgia between 1877 and 1918. d. Explain reasons for World War I and describe Georgia’s contributions.

What was World War I? (1914-1918) Originally called the “Great War” due to the numerous nations that fought and the great cost of lives and property. Broke out in Europe in August 1914 between the Allied Powers (Great Britain, France, and Russia) and the Central Powers (Germany, Austrian-Hungary Empire, and the Ottoman Empire). Over 9 million soldiers died as well as over 5 million civilians died (22 million soldiers injured) United States remained neutral until April 1917 ( war had already gone on for 20 months), then joined Allied Powers. It ends in November of 1918.

Causes for World War I There were several causes for World War I. These included alliances, nationalism, colonization, militarism and political and economic rivalries. Nationalism is the belief that loyalty to a person's nation and its political and economic goals comes before any else. Colonization is the forming of a settlement or colony by a group of people who seek to take control of territories or countries. Militarism is the belief that a strong military force should be maintained and used aggressively to defend or promote national interests. Post WWI Colonization Continued… Ex. Nationalism

World War I begins… In June 1914, Archduke Franz Ferdinand heir to the throne of Austria-Hungary, was assassinated by Serbian nationalists. Soon after, Austria-Hungary declared war on Serbia. Within a few months, the allies of these countries had joined the war. The U.S.A. was not going to get involved until…. Archduke Franz Ferdinand

Why did the U.S.A. get involved? (2 main reasons) German U-boats (fighting ships that travel underwater and are also called submarines), kept sinking U.S. ships believing they were shipping military supplies to England (some were). The most famous ship sunk was the Lusitania. It was a cruise ship that was carrying over 1,900 passengers, but also carrying military supplies (this was unknown to the cruise passengers)’ Over 1,200 people died. 128 were Americans. Americans were outraged!

The second main reason… Original coded message and translation The U.S. learned that Germany sent a telegram promising Mexico territory in the Western United States in exchange for help in the war against the U.S.A. (Say what?) Mexico never agreed to the deal, but the telegram became known as the Zimmermann Telegram. Zimmermann was the name of the official that tried to send the message. This made Americans even more furious with German and war is declared in April 1917.

Photos from World War I New recruits in London In the trenches WWI African-American Soldiers New weapons were developed to fight the war such as poison gas, tanks, and machine guns.

How was Georgia involved in WWI? Several reasons: Many able-bodied men to use as soldiers (many were farmers). Large number of military bases (Fort McPherson (oldest), Fort Stewart, Fort Gordon and others). Textile mills provided uniforms and blankets. Farmers produced needed goods. Railroads provided valuable transport of men, weapons, and supplies. Camp Gordon, now known as Fort Gordon. Textile Mill in Georgia

WWI comes to an end… War officially ends on November 11, 1918 and is known as (Armistice Day) Armistice- an agreement made by opposing sides in a war to stop fighting for a certain time; a truce. The Central Powers lose land and power. (Germany, Austrian-Hungary Empire, and the Ottoman Empire). World War I- Movie