US HISTORY - World War I

Which of the following best describes nationalism’s role in causing World War I?

It strengthened the power of small, independent nations

How did imperialism contribute to rising tensions before World War I?

European nations competed for colonies, increasing rivalries

What was the main goal of militarism before World War 1?

To develop strong military forces for use in diplomacy

How did the alliance system contribute to the outbreak of World War I?

It caused many countries to join the war once it started

What event directly triggered the start of World War I?

The assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand

Why did the United States mobilize for war against the Central Powers in 1917?

To ensure Allied repayment of debts and protect US shipping

What was the purpose of the British blockade during World War I?

To cut off German supply lines, including food and weapons

What was Germany’s response to the British blockade?

They set up their own blockade using U-boats, sinking ships without warning

What event led to increased American outrage against Germany in 1915?

The sinking of the Lusitania by German U-Boat

What was the Zimmerman Note?

A German telegram promising to help Mexico reclaim lost US territory

Why did President Wilson ask Congress to declare war on Germany in April 1917?

To make the world “safe for democracy” and respond to German aggression

How did the United States rapidly expand its military after entering World War I?

By passing the Selective Service Act to draft soldiers

What strategy helped reduce U-boat attacks on Allied shipping during the war?

The convoy system, where destroyers escorted merchant ships

What was one of the key contributions of American soldiers in Europe?

They brought fresh energy and enthusiasm to exhausted Allied forces

What was one of the major physical effects of trench warfare on soldiers?

Trench foot caused by standing in cold, wet conditions

How did “shell shock” affect soldiers during World War I?

It caused complete emotional and psychological collapse

How did technology change warfare during World War I?

Tanks and airplanes led to the rise of mechanized warfare

What role did American troops play in turning the tide of World War I?

They helped stop the German advance at Cantigny and played key roles in major battles like Château-Thierry and the second battle of the Mame

What event led to the end of fighting in World War I?

The signing of the armistice on November 11, 1918

What power did Congress give President Wilson during World War I?

Direct control over the economy, including price fixing and industry regulation

What was one major result of the War Industries Board’s efforts?

Industrial production increased by about 20%

Why were labor disputes during World War I a major concern for the US government?

Strikes and poor working conditions could disrupt wartime production thus hurting the allies

What strategy did the Food Administration use to conserve food during the war?

Encouraged voluntary sacrifice with themed days like “Meatless Mondays”

How did wartime conditions spread the flu?

Crowded military living conditions allowed the virus to spread quickly

What effect did the war have on women’s lives?

It opened up new job opportunities traditionally held by men

How did he war open opportunities for African Americans?

The Great Migration allowed them to find industrial jobs in the North

What were some effects of anti-German hysteria in the US during WWI?

German names and cultural items were changed or banned

What were the Espionage and Sedition Acts?

Laws punishing anti-war speech during Wartime

What was one of the ways Parisians greeted Woodrow Wilson upon his arrival in Europe?

They strewed the street with flowers

Which of the following was NOT one of the first points of Wilson’s Fourteen Points, aimed at preventing future wars?

Germany should accept the sole responsibility for starting the war

What was primary motivation for French Premier Georges Clemenceau in the peace negotiations?

To prevent future German invasions of France

Which of the following was explicitly mentioned as one of the new nations established by the Treaty of Versailles?

Poland

What was the “war-guilt clause” in the Treaty of Versailles?

A clause forcing Germany to admit sole responsibility for starting World War I

What was the main concern of conservative senators in the US like Henry Cabot Lodge, regarding the League of Nations?

They feared it would threaten the US foreign policy of isolationism

What was a key reason why the US Senate ultimately failed to ratify the Treaty of Versailles?

President Wilson refused to compromise on the terms of the League of Nations

What significant physical ailment did Woodrow Wilson suffer during his tour to promote the League of Nations?

A stroke that left him partially paralyzed

What political ideology gained control in Italy, Spain, and Germany in the aftermath of the war?

Fascism