World War I Study Guide - The Great War

These flashcards cover key concepts regarding the U.S. involvement in World War I, including the causes of entry into the war, government actions taken to support the war effort, and significant battles and strategies.

What was the original American response to World War I?

The U.S. maintained a stance of neutrality.

What was Wilson's campaign slogan during World War I?

Wilson's campaign slogan was 'He kept us out of the war.'

What were American concerns about World War I?

Concerns included the impact of the war on American lives and neutrality.

What major event involved unrestricted submarine warfare that influenced U.S. entry into the war?

The sinking of the Lusitania.

What was the Sussex Pledge?

Germany promised to limit unrestricted submarine warfare.

What was the Zimmerman telegram?

A secret communication proposing a military alliance between Germany and Mexico.

What economic reasons contributed to the U.S. entering World War I?

U.S. financial ties to the Allies and trade interests.

How did Wilson convince Congress to declare war?

He emphasized the threat to democracy and American lives being taken.

What was the purpose of the National Defense Act of 1916?

To bring state militias under federal control.

What was the Council of National Defense?

An organization to coordinate resources for the war effort.

How did the U.S. Shipping Board support the war?

By acquiring and operating merchant ships.

What was the role of the Committee of Public Information?

To influence public opinion in favor of the war.

What did the Selective Service Act authorize?

Conscription of men aged 21-45 into military service.

What were the American Expeditionary Forces?

U.S. troops sent to the Western Front to aid the Allies.

What was the purpose of the War Industries Board?

To coordinate wartime production and prioritize resources.

How did the War Labor Policies Board impact production?

It prevented labor disruptions that could hinder war production.

What did the Espionage and Sedition Acts aim to prevent?

Activities disloyal to the U.S. military and war efforts, including prohibiting speech that criticized the war.

What advantages did Germany have in 1917 before U.S. entry?

Effective unrestricted submarine warfare and fighting a one-front war.

How did the U.S. contribute to winning World War I?

By providing fresh troops and resources to the Allies.

What was the Convoy System in World War I?

Naval protection for merchant ships transporting troops and supplies.

What was the significance of the 2nd Battle of the Marne?

It marked a turning point in favor of the Allies.

What led to the end of World War I?

The signing of the armistice agreement.

How did propaganda affect American support during WWI?

It helped garner public support and enlistment.

What did total war entail during World War I?

Mobilization of all resources and industries in support of the war.

What was the impact of wartime censorship?

Limited what information was available to the public regarding the war effort.

What drove the decision to implement conscription during WWI?

The need for a larger and ready military force.

What role did industry play in supporting the war effort?

Industries were converted to produce wartime materials and goods.

How did the U.S. government finance the war?

Through war bonds and increased taxes.