The United States in the Great War

In a short response of one to three sentences, reply to the following prompt: Describe a good reason for a country to go to war.

World War 1 (the Great War) -- July 28, 1914 Snowballed into tragedy Europe torn between the Allies and the Central Powers Would the U.S. get involved?

The Great War bogged into stalemate Russian numbers too great in the East Trench warfare in the West Casualties mounted

Initial intent was to remain neutral Long-standing American policy of isolation American interests not at risk U.S. unprepared for war. Wilson as a peacemaker Population divided on which side to support

Modern war fought with 18 th century tactics Stalemate led to new weapons Poison Gas Flame Throwers Tanks Airplanes Casualties mounted

U.S. drawn toward the Allies German U-Boat campaign German violation of neutral rights (Belgium)

Deep disgust over the treatment of neutral nations Civilians killed when passenger liners sunk by U-Boats Lusitania Sussex Wilson threatened to cut ties with Germany Sussex Pledge (May 1916) Germany agreed to stop targeting certain ships

Influential Americans proposed entering the war in 1915 National Defense Act passed in June, 1916 Saw a rapid growth of the military Increased Army to 175,000 troops 50 new warships for the Navy

Seen as a referendum on U.S. policy in Europe Anti-War Sentiments strong “He Kept Us Out of the War”

Zimmermann Telegram Germany to start “unrestricted submarine warfare” in February 1917 Germany attempts alliance with Mexico Germany proposed Mexico declare war on the U.S.

War declared April 6, 1917 Attacks on U.S. shipping Zimmermann Telegram U.S. stressed lofty goals Preserve “freedom of the seas” Preserve rights of neutral nations “Make the World Safe for Democracy”

In a short response of one to two sentences, describe some topic from class today you would like to learn more about.