WWI and the Americas

What was WWI also known as?

The Great War.

What years did WWI take place?

1914 - 1918.

Who were the Allies?

France, UK, Russia, the United States, and Italy.

Who were the Central Powers?

Germany, Austria-Hungary, the Ottoman Empire, and Bulgaria.

What sparked the beginning of WWI?

The assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria-Hungary.

What were the underlying causes of WWI?

Nationalism, militarism, imperial rivalries, and complex alliances.

What warfare characterized WWI?

Trench warfare, mass casualties, and the use of new weapons like machine guns and tanks.

What ended WWI in 1918?

The defeat of the Central Powers and the signing of the Treaty of Versailles in 1919.

Who was the President of the United States during WWI?

Woodrow Wilson.

What was Wilsonianism?

Wilson's belief in promoting peace and democracy, influenced by his Christian morals.

What were the reasons for U.S. neutrality at the beginning of WWI?

Lack of interest in the European conflict, desire to trade with both sides, and many immigrants in the U.S. with ties to the warring nations.

What event led to U.S. anger and increased support for entering WWI?

Germany's unrestricted submarine warfare, including the sinking of ships with American passengers.

What was the Sussex Pledge?

Germany's promise to evacuate capital ships before sinking them, contingent upon the U.S. influencing Britain to ease the blockade.

What was Black Tom's Explosion?

A mysterious explosion at a munitions plant in Jersey City that caused significant damage and was blamed on German saboteurs.

What was the purpose of the Espionage and Sedition Acts?

To penalize critics of the U.S. government's war policy.

What did the Selective Service Act establish?

A democratic draft system that called men into military service.

What was the impact of the Canadian War Measures Act?

It gave the government sweeping powers to control citizens and the economy during WWI.

What were Ross rifles?

Canadian-made rifles favored by snipers but poorly suited for trench warfare.

What were Canadian Victory Bonds?

Debt securities issued to finance military operations during WWI.

What was the significance of women in the workforce during WWI?

Women filled jobs vacated by men who were fighting, leading to greater support for women's suffrage.

What was the Zimmermann Telegram?

A secret proposal from Germany to Mexico for an alliance against the U.S., intercepted by British intelligence.

What was Wilson’s Fourteen Points?

A statement of principles for peace negotiations to end WWI.

What was the Treaty of Versailles?

The peace treaty that ended WWI and imposed heavy reparations and territorial losses on Germany.

What was the Red Scare?

Fear of communism and radical leftism in the U.S. following the Russian Revolution.

How did the war impact the economy in the U.S.?

The war increased jobs but led to inflation, layoffs, and a subsequent recession after soldiers returned.

What was Wilson’s vision for post-war international relations?

An international organization for peace and mutual guarantees, self-determination for nations, and no secret treaties.

How did Canada’s involvement in WWI shape its national identity?

The war fostered a sense of Canadian unity and pride in international contributions.

What difficulties did African Americans face during WWI?

Despite opportunities, they faced discrimination, segregation, and post-war tensions.

How were Black Canadians treated during recruitment for WWI?

They were often rejected or segregated during enlistment.

What role did propaganda play in the war effort?

It was used to encourage enlistment and support for war funding.

What were the economic methods used to fund the war?

Loans and taxes, including victory bonds and increased income taxes.

What was the purpose of the U.S. Committee on Public Information?

To disseminate information and promote support for the war effort.

How did trench warfare affect soldiers' experiences?

It led to severe living conditions and high casualty rates, creating a grueling combat environment.

What was the role of Canadian women during the war?

Women enlisted as nurses and supported the war effort from home