American Involvement in World War I

Leading America to War America and declared itself neutral at the beginning of the war Wilson continued to proclaim neutrality even when Germany began practicing unrestricted submarine warfare

Wilson urged Americans to remain neutral, but, how do Irish and German immigrants remain neutral? Also, America, under the flag of neutrality, continued trading with Europe… primarily with the Allies.

In order to keep America from trading with Britain, Germany sank merchant ships without warning. This is called unrestricted submarine warfare.

Violation of Neutral Rights After sinking the Lusitania, Wilson protested to the German government. The Germans apologized and promised to end their submarine warfare. Wilson thought the US was safe.

Unfortunately, Germany could not last long if America continued to trade with England and the Allies. In 1916, Germany decided to begin unrestricted submarine warfare once again!

The Zimmerman Note The German Foreign minister sent a telegram to Mexico promising an alliance that, if Mexico attacked the US, Germany would support Mexico in recovering Texas, New Mexico, and Arizona. This made the US REALLY upset! US declares war in April of 1917!

Mobilizing for War! The US only had about 200,000 soldiers in the army at the time. The Selective Service Act established a draft. About 400,000 African- Americans served in the army About 13,000 women served in non-combat functions (nurses, secretaries, and telephone operators

American Expeditionary Force in Europe! At first, Americans fought only under the command of Europe generals. They proved themselves worthy (2 African-American soldiers received French honors for fighting) and were allowed to fight on their own Their numbers would eventually turn the tide of the war

American Heroes John J. “Black Jack” Pershing Commander of the AEF in Europe Saw action in Mexico hunting for Pancho Villa

American Heroes Eddie Rickenbacker World War One American Flying Ace

American Heroes Sergeant Alvin York Was originally a “conscientious objector” Served in the Army and captured 132 Germans single handedly