WW1

Stalemate

A situation in which neither side can gain an advantage, often leading to prolonged conflict.

Schlieffen Plan

Germany’s military strategy to avoid a two-front war by quickly defeating France in the west before turning to fight Russia in the east.

War of Attrition

A strategy of wearing down the enemy through continuous losses in personnel and resources.

Two-Front War

A war fought on two geographically separate fronts.

Trench

A long, narrow ditch used for protection in warfare.

No Man’s Land

The dangerous, unoccupied area between opposing trenches.

Machine Gun

A rapid-firing automatic weapon that significantly increased battlefield casualties.

Isolationist

The belief that a country should not be involved with other countries.

U-boat

A German submarine used for naval warfare.

Blockade

The use of naval forces to prevent goods and supplies from reaching enemy territories.

Zimmerman Telegram

A secret German message proposing an alliance against the U.S. to Mexico. It promised Mexico the territories of Texas, New Mexico, and Arizona if they joined the war on the side of the Central Powers.

Unrestricted Submarine Warfare

A German naval strategy where submarines would sink any ship without warning.

Homefront

The civilian population and activities in a nation at war.

Propaganda

Information used to promote a political cause or influence public opinion.

How Industrialization Affected WWI

Led to advanced weaponry and a more deadly conflict.

Why the U.S. Joined WWI

Factors included unrestricted submarine warfare, the Zimmerman Telegram, and economic ties.

Effects of the Treaty of Versailles

Imposed harsh penalties on Germany, leading to economic struggles. (often stated as the main catalyst for WWII)

Effects of WWI on the USA

The U.S. emerged as a global power and experienced domestic changes.