Section 1:
Dr. Woodrow Wilson
The Democrats wanted a place in office and they knew that if they could find an outstanding reformist leader they would have an excellent chance at winning the White House. They found this leader they were looking for in Dr. Woodrow Wilson, who was a mild conservative but now a militant progressive.
Wilson’s wise, wins the reforms pies
Wilson waged
Bosses in NJ needed a respectable candidate for governor and decided to offer Wilson the position. They expected him to lead as an academic novice but surprisingly Wilson Waged a passionate reform campaign instead.
His campaign: state go to the ppl, bust bad trusts, and more progressive reforms.
New Freedom
A program created by Wilson that gave him a strong progressive platform to run on. This program aimed for things like stronger antitrust legislation, banking reforms, and tariff reductions.
New freedom fights crooks, banks, and books
Third-party
The progressives created a hastily made third party that helped to quickly pass many pet reforms that were created by Willson’s Democrats (aka Wilsonian Democrats).
Third party, fast reforms, like a wild swarm
Bull Moose (659)
The nickname of the third-party of the progressives that was formed in 1912 by former president Roosevelt. This platform advocated for and believed in Roosevelt’s “new nationalism”
They wanted more regulations on the power of the federal and state governments and strong regulations on industry (protect the working class!).
Bull Moose, Roosevelt’s loose!
New Nationalism
During the 1912 campaign, the big competition was between New Nationalism (Roosevelt) and Wilson’s New Freedom (Wilson).
Reference term above for details abt his new nationalism
New Nationalism, Roosevelt’s Plan, More power to Uncle Sam! (more fed)
TR both favored
During the 1912 campaign competition (above), Roosevelt preached theories from the progressive speaker Herbert Croly. Croly and TR both favored the consolidation (growth) of trusts and labor unions as well as the expansion of trust management agencies. (Regulation of trusts!)
TR said trusts are just fine, regulate them, make them align!
Wilson’s New Freedom
Wilson’s New Freedom (opposite to TR’s New Nationalism) favored small businesses, entrepreneurship, and free functioning of unregulated and unmonopolized markets. (Fragmentation of trusts!)
Wilson’s game, break the trust chain!
“Man on the make”
Wilson appealed to the “man on the make” which was the man trying to start up and make their own business. The democrats weren’t for this social welfare and thought the USA needed competition, unlike what Wilson believed. (Wilson = for man on the make)
Won handedly
Wilson won handedly (won easily) with 435 electoral votes and 6,296,547 popular votes.
Socialist Candidate (660)
Eugene Debs was the socialist candidate in the 1912 election.
He won 900,672 votes, which was 6% of the total vote.
Debs took a stand…but 6% wasn’t grand!
Jefferson’s Faith (663)
Wilson shared Jefferson’s Faith which was presbyterian (Christian/Catholic) and it influenced the way he ran.
Serious Defects
Wilson was smart intellectually but had serious defects socially. He was kind of an introvert because he could be fun and witty privately but was often cold/standoffish/and awkward in public.
He wasn’t a people president like Roosevelt.
Wilson’s brain was bright but socially…a fright!
“Triple wall of privilege”
President Wilson attacked the “triple wall of privilege” which was the banks, trusts, and the tariff.
Underwood Tariff
Wilson was acting aggressively towards this triple wall so Congress passed the Underwood Tariff. This lowered tariff rates greatly and reintroduced a federal income tax.
16. Sixteenth Amendment (664)
The amendment that gives Congress the power to collect federal income taxes without having to determine it based on population.
16th times a charm, an income tax will do no harm!
Section 2:
Federal Reserve Act
The Federal Reserve Act was created by Wilson and made a nationwide system with 12 regional reserve districts each with separate banks. This act gave the Fed the ability to print money and policy tools to ensure economic stability.
Fed Reserve, banks preserve!
Federal Trade Commission Act (664)
Empowered a presidentially appointed commission to crush monopolies at their source by rooting out unfair trade practices
Unlawful competition, false advertising, mislabeling, adulteration, bribery
Clayton Antitrust Act
1914, lengthened the Sherman Act’s list of bad business practice (price discrimination, interlocking directorates)
Sought to exempt labor & agricultural organizations from antitrust prosecutions, while explicitly legalizing strikes and peaceful picketing
Clayton’s rule, make business cool!
holding companies
Companies that own multiple businesses. The Clayton Antitrust Act was written to curb the power of these conglomerates.
further reforms (Federal Farm Loan Act of 1916)
The Federal Farm Loan Act of 1916; made it so credit is available to farmers at low rates of interest as it was long demanded by populists
The Warehouse Act authorized loans on the security of staple crops
Farmers cheer, loans are near!
Workingmen's Compensation Act
Passed in 1916
Assistance to federal civil-service employees during periods of disability (sickness, injury, etc.)
Comp for work, keep it from the jerk!
Adamson Act
Passed in 1916
Established eight-hour days for all workers on trains in interstate commerce.
Adamson’s eight, workers celebrate!
endeared himself
Wilson’s policies were not supported by businessmen and bigots.
Wilson;s game, not for bigots fame!
Progressives respected him, especially after he appointed Louis D. Brandeis to the Supreme Court (first Jew in SC!)
accelerated segregation
Wilson’s progressivism didn’t include better treatment for blacks and Wilson was actually responsible for accelerated segregation.
Some of his policies:
Wilson imposed segregation in his Cabinet departments
He appointed Southern Democrats, who were likely in favor of segregationist policies
Unlike the purported “separate but equal” policies of the Jim Crow era, Wilson's order was overtly discriminatory.
Wilson’s plan, segreation ran!
Wilson recoiled (666)
Wilson recoiled from an aggressive foreign policy. Hating imperialism, he was repelled by TR’s big stick-ism. Suspicious of Wall Street, he detested the so-called dollar diplomacy by Taft.
He declared that the government would no longer offer special support to American investors in Latin America and China
Jones Act
Granted the Philippines the boon of territorial status and promised independence as soon as a “Stable Government” could be established. Wilson’s racial prejudices, however, made it difficult for him to anticipate anything other than a long political tutelage(protection) for Philippines
Jones gives a chance for the Philippines to advance!
General Victoriano Huerta (667)
A Mexican military leader and a politician who became president of Mexico in early 1913 after the assassination of the revolutionary president Francisco I. Madero.
Huerta’s rise, after Madero’s surprise!
newcomers tramped
A phrase describing the large-scale movement of Mexican migrants across the U.S. southern border in the early 20th century. “Tramped” implies they traveled by foot or endured difficult journeys, seeking better opportunities, they faced upon arrival.
Cries for intervention (667)
Cries for intervention = meaning strong public demands or calls
People made cries for intervention for the U.S. government to take military or political action in response to the revolutionary violence in Mexico, to protect American interests and citizens.
moral course
Wilson strove as best as he could to steer a moral course in Mexico. He sent his aggressive ambassador packing, imposed an arms embargo, and refused to recognize officially the murderous government of “that brute” Huerta.
Wilson’s way, keep the morals at bay!
seize the Mexican port
Before congress could act, Wilson ordered the navy to seize the Mexican port of Veracruz to thwart the arrival of a German steamer carrying Huerta-bound guns and ammunition.
Wilson’s call, seize Veracruz, stand tall!
ABC Powers
Wilson was rescued by an offer of mediation from the ABC Powers: Argentina, Brazil, and Chile.
Tampico Incident
Huerta collapsed in July 1914 under pressure from within and without. He was succeeded by archrival Venustiano Carranza, still fiercely resentful of Wilson’s Military meddling. The whole sorry Tampico Incident didn’t augur (foreshadow) well for the future United States-Mexican relationships.
Wilson was determined to take down Huerta despite Mexicans promptly releasing captives and apologizing.
Tampico’s mess, U.S.-Mexico distress (because the Tampico Incident highlighted tensions and strained future U.S.-Mexican relations)
Villa and his followers
“Pancho” Villa, a combination of bandit and Robin Hood, had meanwhile stolen the spotlight. He emerged as the chief rival to President Carranza, whom Wilson now reluctantly supported.
Villa’s men ruthlessly hauled 16 young American mining engineers off a train traveling through northern Mexico and killed them.
He was hoping to cause a war with Wilson by also killing 19 Americans across the border; Columbus and New Mexico.
John J. Pershing (669)
Pershing was an important U.S. Army general who in 1916, led the Punitive Expedition into Mexico to capture revolutionary leader Pancho Villa (leader of bandit band), who had conducted raids into the U.S. Pershing’s force advanced quickly into Mexico
He ended up not catching him.
He was ordered to break up the bandit band.
Pershing’s quest, to capture the best!
Section 3:
Imperialism:
heir to the throne
The individual next in line to inherit the monarchy of Austria-Hungary was Archduke Franz Ferdinand. His assination in the Sarajevo trigged the events leading to World War I (below).
Ferdinand’s fate, sparked a world war’s state!
chain reaction
The start of the war went as follows:
After Serbia declined the ultimatum, Austria-Hungary declared war on Serbia.
Germany declared war as well, honoring the blank check issued to Austria-Hungary.
Russia declares war, aiding Serbia. The massive size and collective firepower of Russia intimidated Germany.
France declared war on Germany as well.
Germany initiated their “Schlieffen Plan”, which involved invading Belgium and conquering France before Russia could fully militarize and then attack Russia.
This plan failed because it was created in 1905 and therefore it was stupid and obsolete.
War’s chain began, when Serbia said ran!
Central Powers
Germany, Austria-Hungary and later on, Turkey and Bulgaria
Central crew, Germany and Austria too!
Allies
France, Britain, Russia, and later on Japan and Italy.
Allied friends, France and Britian blend!
British enjoyed
British enjoyed refers to the advantages and benefits Britain experienced in its relationship with the United States during World War I. The British used their connection with the USA to gain support for their cause in the war.
The Brits had a deal with the U.S. for real!
Majority of Americans
The majority of Americans wanted to remain neutral and avoid getting involved in World War 1.
Americans say neutral’s the way!
war orders
Refers to the large-scale contracts placed by the British and French governments with American industries for military supplies and equipment needed for World War 1 (weapons, ammo, uniforms, food, and more).
War orders rise, supplies we buy!
noose-tight blockade
“Noose-tight” = super tight (as tight as a noose)
A strict and comprehensive naval blockade enforced by the British navy to prevent goods and supplies from reaching Germany during World War I.
This blockade ended up lowering Germany’s economy and war effort.
Blockade so tight, Germany lost the fight!
submarine war area (670)
The designated zone around British Isles where German submarines would engage in unrestricted naval warfare against enemy vessels. German submarines would attack and sink ships in this area (merchant ships, military, etc) with no exceptions.
Submarine spree, sink ships at sea!
U-boats
The name given to German submarines, from “undersea boat”. These boats sunk merchant and military ships.
German submarines that were used for dangerous purposes that caused 90 ships to sink in war.
This problem grew when the Lusitania was torpedoed.
U-boats dive, making ships not survive!
Lusitania
British liner that was torpedoed and sank on the coats Ireland on May 7, 1915
Loss of 1,198 lives including 128 Americans.
Lustiania’s fall, 1,198 lost, that’s the call!
“weasel words”
An insult Roosevelt used against Wilson that means he didn’t make any definitive statements or decisions in response to Germany. He said that Wilson would just say “weasel words”.
Weasel words flow where firm stances don’t go!
Arabic (672)
A British liner that was sunk in August 1915.
Berlin agreed to not sink an unarmed passenger ship without warning.
Arabic sinks, with warnings in the brinks!
Sussex
Germany had sunk a French passenger steamer, the Sussex.
A pledge (agreement) Germany gave in March 1916 during WW1 that promised they wouldn’t sink any more of the ships.
In 1917, this pledge was broken
Sussex was struck, Germany’s pledge ran amok!
Cold intellectual (672)
Refers to Charles Evan Hughe’s personality and demeanor as a candidate. He had a rational and analytical approach to politics but was seen as detached and/or unemotional (lack of charisma).
Cold intellect shines, but lacks the charm that aligns!
“He Kept Us Out of War”
This was Wilson’s 1916 re-election campaign slogan. It meant that under the leadership of Wilson the United States avoided getting involved in World War 1, which was very important to Americans at the time.
Aka thanks to Wilson the country still had peace and remained out of war and safe from conflict in Europe.
Wilson’s great lore, kept us out of war!
flocked to the polls
A large number of Midwesterners and westerners excitedly ran to the polls to vote for Wilson on election day. They loved him because of his progressive reforms and antiwar stance.
Voters take flight, flocking to the polls for what’s right!
Section 4:
Imperialism:
“Peace without victory” (673)
Refers to Wilson’s idealistic vision of ending WWI without any side reaching a clear military victory. He just wanted a peaceful ending with out any side getting a total victory because he thought it would reduce the urge for further wars and would avoid humiliation for any country.
Peace without victory, no one’s left in misery!
their decision
Refers to the collective choice made by American voters during the 1916 presidential election. Midwesterners and westerners influenced by Wilson’s progressive reforms and antiwar stance ultimately voted in favor of Wilson.
Their decision was clear, Wilson’s reforms drew near!
to its knees
The phrase to its knees means to bring someone or something to a state of defeat (they’re weakened and can't resist anymore).
Germany was being forced to comply with demands or facing serious consequences in the war.
“overt acts”
Wilson responded by destroying all diplomatic ties but maintained that war would not be an option unless the Germans commit one more atrocity towards the American people.
Wilson also proposed American ships to be armed, but senators declined this proposition, a decision Wilson criticized.
Overt acts demand a stance, war’s a last resort, not a dance!
Zimmerman note
A secret telegram from Germany to Mexico for an attempt to form an alliance against the US if there was war.
In exchange, Germany would help Mexico recover Texas and Arizona.
“sup Mexico, wudn’t it b crrrazy kewl if u guys attacked America?” -Arthur Zimmerman probably
Zimmerman’s note, a secret plea, Help Mexico attack, just wait and see!
April 2, 1917
Wilson delivered his speech which declared war against Germany.
April two, war declared anew!
simple truth (674)
The simple truth was the straightforward fact that Wilson needed to maintain U.S. neutrality during the war.
Keep it clear, Wilson wants to stay neutral here!
ambitious goal
The ambitious goal was Wilson’s vision for post-WWI characterized by lasting peace and stability. He wanted to create a new international order based on democracy, self-determination, collective security, etc which he wanted to establish with things like the League of Nations and more.
torch of idealism
The commitment to high moral standards and principles, mainly with foreign and international relations, that Wilson had. He wanted to use American ideals like democracy, peace, and justice to inspire and guide actions globally after WW1.
Fourteen Points address (675)
A speech delivered by Wilson on January 8th, 1918 that outlined his vision for peace after WW1. This speech discussed things like self-determination for nations, freedom of the seas, an established League of Nations, and other things to avoid international conflicts.
14 points, a peace decree, Wilson’s plan for harmony!
Aka his aim was to create everlasting peace and address the causes of the war to ensure global stability.
first five
The first five points of his address were the specific measures aimed at preventing future conflicts and ensuring lasting peace. They were:
Open Diplomacy (no secret agreements)
Freedom of the Seas (free navigation for all)
Removal of Economic Barriers (free trade for everyone)
Arms Reduction (limit military weapons),
Self-determination (nations choose their government).
First five points, peace in sight, open talks, seas so bright! Free trade flows, arms to scale, self-determination, let nations prevail!
Other points
He had other points 6-14 which were:
Restoration of territories (return of occupied lands)
Belgium’s Sovereignty (restore Belgium’s independence)
France’s recovery (return Alsace-Lorraine to France)
Italy’s borders (adjust Italy’s borders fairly)
Austro-Hungarian Empire (self-determination for its nations)
Balkan Nations (restore and respect Balkan states)
Ottoman Empire (autonomy for non-Turkish peoples)
Polish Independence (create an independent Poland)
League of Nations (form an organization for peace).
capstone point
The capstone point refers to the 14th point which advocated for the League of Nations. This point was considered the centerpiece of Wilson’s vision for a new world order to prevent future conflicts and create collective security. The League was made to provide a forum for resolving disputes between nations peacefully to promote negotiations with nations.
The 14th point’s the crown jewel, League of Nations, peace will rule!
Committee on Public Information (CPI)
This was a U.S. agency created in 1917 during WWI to influence public opinion and promote support for the war effort. It was led by George Creel and used propaganda to recruit soldiers and generate support for war-related policies. The committee wanted to unify the country behind the war effort by shaping narratives about the war and the U.S. role in it.
“four minute men”
A group of volunteer speakers organized by the CPI during the war that were trained to deliver brief, impactful speeches (normally lasting 4 mins) at public gatherings, events, and movie theaters to promote war effort and encourage patriotism.
They had an important role in shaping public opinion and boosting morale during the war.
frenzied spirit (675)
The intense enthusiasm and patriotic fervor that swept through the U.S. as the nation mobilized the war effort.
hysterical hatred
The extreme and irrational hostility some Americans felt towards perceived enemies during WWI (mainly towards Germans).
Espionage Act of 1917
Tried to bring an end to disloyal activities during the war.
Sedition Act of 1918
Created to extend the Espionage Act of 1917. It forbids anyone to negatively talk/write about the government.
Schenck v. United States 1919
This was a landmark supreme court case that convicted Schenck who urged resistance to the draft during WWI. This case established the rule that certain types of speech during wartime can be restricted because they can encourage people to act illegally or pose a risk to public safety.
They said that the things Schenck encouraged were a risk to public safety.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class Discussion
Q1: What led Woodrow Wison being elected president in 1912?
He had a passionate reform campaign that people liked: state go to the ppl, bust bad trusts, and more progressive reforms.
Made “world safe for democracy”
Wilson was for the “man on the make” and advocated for individuals starting businesses.
He was a NJ governor before being elected as president and was president of Princeton University (was a known figure and had some gov experience)
He had “moral appeal” = he was a good guy who was going to do the right thing morally
Q2: How did Wilson tackle what he called the “triple wall of privilege”?
The triple wall of privilege was the banks, trusts, and the tariffs.
Tariff:
Underwood Tariff
lowered rates, import fees, & reintroduced a federal income tax.
16th amendment
graduated income tax
Banks:
Federal Reserve Act which made a Federal Reserve board with 12 different banks
Nationwide system with 12 regional reserve districts each with separate banks.
This act gave the Fed the ability to print money and policy tools to ensure economic stability.
Trusts:
Federal Trade Commission
Clayton Antitrust Act
Q3: Evaluate Wilson’s foreign policy based on what he did in Latin America and then Mexico
Latin America:
Replaced Dollar Diplomacy w/ Moral Diplomacy; no longer offered support to American investors in Latin America & China, do things for morality instead of money
Repealed Panama Canal Tolls Act of 1912- US citizens were no longer exempt from the toll
Made Haiti a protectorate- sent the Marines there for 19 years after their leader died, controlled finances & law
Purchased the Virgin Islands (they were owned by Denmark before Wilson purchased them)
Look at his foreign policies on the Western hemisphere
Mexico:
Mexican Revolution- immigrants to the US
Tampico Incident- American sailors were captured so Wilson ordered the navy to seize Veracruz port to get rid of Huerta (Mexican dictator)
She said that Pershing is worth knowing. He is put in charge when Wilson is starting to take more action. He is in charge of going into Mexico and leading an army but they end up being withdrawn less than a year later because we kind of knew that Germany was going to have to be our focus.
Q4: What events in Europe lead to the outbreak of war in 1914?
Zimmerman Note: Germany tried to form an alliance with Mexico against the US-failed
April 2, 1917- declaration of war on Germany speech (after the Lusitania was torpedoed)
Asasination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand on June 28, 1914- heir to the throne in Austria-Hungary
Militarism, Assassinations, Nationalism, Imperialism, Alliances- causes of WW1 (MANIA)
Central Powers form: Germany, Austria-Hungary, Turkey, Bulgaria
Allied powers form: France, Britain, russia, Japan, Italy
Q5: What was America’s reaction to the outbreak of war in Europe? Examine specific individuals/groups
Neutrality proclamation
Many wanted the US to stay neutral and not get involved in the conflict
Some Americans with German ancestry were sympathetic, most were glad not to be in Europe
Many Americans were anti-German right away
During neutrality, American industries (especially bankers) were helping the Allies
Zimmerman note
Sussex Pledge: US couldn’t stop the allies trade blockade
Shift in sentiment : Lusitania (a lot of Americans on board)
Q6: How did Wilson's idealism help convince Americans to go to war in 1917?
The 14 points- there was something to help everyone someway
Promised to the people that this would be the last World war
Making World SAFE FOR DEMOCRACY
War to end all wars
Q7: How did Wilson mobilize people’s minds and hearts for war in 1917?
Propaganda (George Creel) with “The navy needs you! Don’t read American History- Make it” Everyone should receive their own rights
He encouraged the frenzied spirit many Americans were experiencing.
Committee on Public Information- (George Creel)
Sent out the four minute men to send out as much information to the people as possible so that it became impossible to ignore (no choice but to focus on/think about this!!!)
There are things all people can do!!!
Enlist
Protect the frontier
Ration food (“Meatless Tuesdays”, “Wheatless Wednesdays”)
Buying bonds (buy $ from the gov, get interest)
Women would step in for work that men use to work in
Reading 29-5:
War Industries Board
Led by Bernard Baruch; this board had weak federal powers but encouraged the government to start taking a central role in economic planning during crises.
After the armistice this board was dissolved and people returned to their Laissez-Faire/weak central gov.
Food Administration (677)
The administration that is responsible for protecting the public health by making sure food is safe and up to code for the public, during the war it conserved food during wartime. Led by Herbert C. Hoover (a quaker); he was considered a hero for feeding starving people with a charity food drive.
Eighteenth Amendment
Prohibited all alcoholic beverages
Causes: Congress restricted foodstuff, war-spawned spirit of self-denial, many lead brewers were German-descended
size and power
During the war the federal government increased in size and power.
Time itself
During the war the USA even controlled time itself with daylight saving time (which was for extending workdays and saving fuel).
“Labor Will Win the War”
This was a slogan that got American workers to work extra hard in hopes of working towards victory.
loyally supported
Samuel Gompers and his American Federation of Labor loyally supported the war (contrary some smaller groups didn’t like the Industrial Workers of the World).
harbored grievances (678)
Means holding onto feelings of resentment or dissatisfaction, mainly because of treatment. Lavor groups felt frustrated over issues like wages and unions.
Industrial Workers of the World
A smaller and more radical labor organization that didn’t support the war.
When the Espionage Act (1917) and the Sedition Act (1918) created fears in antiwar Americans like the industrial workers.
inter-racial violence
In 1919 black workers from the South came to the North during wartime to work in steel mills. Their sudden appearance caused inter-racial violence with whites in previously all white areas.
split the women’s movement
The war split the women’s movement.
Some women = pacifists, opposing violence and participation in the war effort. They found a voice in the National Woman’s Party, led by the Quaker Activist Alice Paul.
Larger part of the women's suffrage movement = represented by the National American Woman Suffrage Association; supported the war. They thought women needed to take part in the war effort to help shape peace.
“…necessary war measure” (680)
Wilson said that women’s suffrage was a vitally necessary war measure
In 1917 NY voted for women's suffrage at the state level and Michigan, Oklahoma, and South Dakota followed.
Nineteenth Amendment
Impressed by women’s war work, President Wilson supported women’s right to vote as a “vitally necessary war measure”
1917: suffrage was voted for at the state level
1918: Great Britain, Austria, Hungary, Germany extended suffrage
1920: amendment was finally ratified
Sheppard-Towner Maternity Act
Providing federally financed instruction on maternal and infant care it expanded the responsibilities of the federal government for family welfare.
Women workers gave up their war jobs and congress supported their motherhoods
Reading 29-6 (Reading Quiz on this section Thursday!!!):
American Expeditionary Forces
The U.S. military troops sent to Europe during WW1 under Pershing to support the Allied forces against Germany on the Western Front.
frantic months
A period of intense, hurried activity that happened during the rapid expansion of the U.S. military and its involvement in WW1.
The army grew to over 4 million men during this time and for the first time women were admitted as well as some African Americans.
Russia’s collapse (681)
The breakdown of Russia’s military and political stability during WW1, causing their withdrawal from the war. They exited the war in early 1918 after the Bolshevik Revolution in early 1918, which freed German forces to shift to the Western front.
reach the front
Means for soldiers or military forces to arrive at the main battle lines where active fighting is taking place. During this time American troops finally arrived at the Western Front in France to join the Allies against Germany.
dreaded German drive
Following the collapse of Russia, Germany could send all of its troops from the east to the west. This remarkable build-up of manpower (500,000 men) resulted in a breakthrough in the previously impregnable allied defenses. The dreaded German drive reached within forty miles of Paris, before the American reinforcements could relieve the allied defense.
Chateau-Thierry
American forces were thrown straight into the oncoming German onslaught, and one notable location was at Chateau-Thierry. This battle is significant because it was the first battle involving American soldiers fighting in a European war.
Second Battle of the Marne
Following the victory at the battle of Chateau-Thierry, French and American forces launched a large counter-offensive, aiming to retake the land lost in the initial German attack at the start of the spring. This culminated in the Second Battle of the Marne (Entente victory). This effectively put a stop to the German spring offensive, and put allied forces on the front foot for the rest of the war.
St. Mihiel salient
A bulge in the French line, making further offensive action vulnerable to a German counter attack. American forces were sent into the sector to force the Germans away from the St. Mihiel salient.
Meuse-Argonne Offensive
A major Allied military campaign during the war that was led by Pershing's American forces from September 26th to November 11th, 1918. Its aim was to cut off German supply lines on the Western Front. Involving over 1.2 million American troops, it was the largest and bloodiest operation for the U.S. in the war, with significant casualties due to fighting across the Argonne Forest.
eleven o’clock (684)
The specific time - 11:00 AM on November 11th, 1918 when the armistice to end WWI came into effect. This moment marked the official end of hostilities on the Western Front (end of war and transition to peace!)
costs exceeded
Costs exceeded - The total losses were greater than anticipated.
The human, economic, and social toll of WWI was far higher than anyone would have expected, with millions of soldiers dead and many wounded, along with other casualties from the influenza pandemic.
main contributions
The main contributions the United States made to the war effort were foodstuffs, munitions, credits, oil for the first mechanized war, and manpower.
Manpower in this case “refers to the prospect of endless U.S. troop reserves, rather than America’s actual military performance, that eventually demoralized the Germans”.
demoralized (685)
Means to lose confidence, hope, or morale often as a result of setbacks, failures, or long periods of hardship.
The German forces became disheartened and discouraged due to the prospect of facing an endless supply of American troops, despite their own military performance.
no arsenal of democracy
The United States' limited role in supplying military resources and materials during WWI meant that they weren’t the primary source of military weapons and ammunition for the Allies at the time.
The U.S. instead relied heavily on imports from their European allies for weapons, supplies, and logistical support.
personally appealed
A direct and personal request made by someone; Wilson sought to connect with individuals and groups on a personal level to gain more support for his cause which was a Democratic victory in the congressional elections. His personal involvement was meant to grow his political influence and strengthen his position at the Paris peace table.
snubbed the Senate
Means that Wilson purposely ignored the Senate when assembling his peace delegation, choosing not to include any Republican senators in his official party. This contributed to political tensions because the Republicans felt he didn’t see them as important and it weakened support for him from both parties during his peace efforts following the war.
Reading 29-7:
the Big Four
The Paris Conference fell into the hands of The Big Four: Lloyd George of Britain, Vittorio Emanuele Orlando of Italy, Georges Clemenceau of France, and Woodrow Wilson (the driver's seat) of the U.S.
half-loaf solution
Half-loaf solution - a compromise that provides only part of what is desired or needed to create a solution.
Wilson had an approach towards colonial territories after WWI where he sought to balance between imperial interests and idealistic principles by not outright annexing the conquered lands. This arrangement still resembled prewar colonialism and created a half-loaf solution to the issues of imperialism and self-determination.
League of Nations (686)
An international organization founded after WWI established by the Treaty of Versailles in 1919. The league’s primary goal was to promote peace and cooperation among countries to prevent future conflicts through collective security and diplomacy.
Saar Valley
This was a coal-rich area in western Germany that became a center point in post-WWI negotiations (especially during the Paris Peace Conference). The French Prime Minister Georges Clemenceau pushed for control of the Saar Valley. This push led to a compromise in the region that remained under the League of Nations for fifteen years.
China’s Shandong (687)
This was a Peninsula that became a point of contention (interest) during the Paris Peace Conference after WWI. China’s Shandong was originally seized by Japan during the war and became a focus when Wilson opposed Japanese control, arguing that it violated self-determination for the local Chinese population. A compromise was eventually reached that allowed Japan to retain economic holdings in Shandong.
Big picture: this is another showing of the challenges of balancing national interests and principles of self-determination among the Allied powers.
Treaty of Versailles
Signed in 1919, it formally ended WWI and created heavy reparations and territorial losses for Germany. This treaty also established the League of Nations but caused criticism because it had harsh terms that created political instability in Germany (sets up future conflict…)
Irreconcilables
A group of 39 militant isolationist republican senators who did not approve of the League of Nations as it was
Lead by William Borah (ID) & Hiram Johnson (CA), known as the Irreconcilables or Battalion of Death
no real hope
Senator Lodge had no real hope of defeating the Treaty of Versailles. His strategy was merely to amend it in such a way as to “American-ize,” “Republicanize,” or “senatorialize” it
barnstorming campaign
Wilson would appeal to the heads of the Senate to the sovereign people as he often did in the past. The strenuous barnstorming campaign was under-taken in face of protests by physicians and friends.
“funeral train”
Wilson was whisked back in the “funeral train” to Washington, where several days later a stroke paralyzed one side of his body.
formal reservations
Senator lodge came up with fourteen formal reservations after failing to amend the treaty (parody of Wilson's Fourteen Points)
Reserved the rights of the US under the Monroe Doctrine + Constitution and protect American sovereignty
November 19, 1919 (688)
When it was time for the senate to vote on the treaty + Lodge’s reservation, Wilson told all Democrats to vote against the treaty and the reservations (he hoped to later ratify only the treaty). On 11/19/1919, the treaty was rejected causing public outrage. ⅘ of senators confessed to liking the treaty w/ or w/o the reservations attached.
March 19, 1920
The Senate met on 3/19/1920 to revote on the treaty + Lodge’s reservations. Wilson again asked all democrats to vote against the treaty, and so, by failing to get two-third majority, the treaty was rejected.
Who defeated the treaty?
The Lodge-Wilson personal feud, traditionalism, isolationism, disillusionment, partisanship, but mostly Wilson. “He asked for all or nothing—and got nothing.”
Reading 29-8:
“solemn referendum”
Wilson proposed to settle the treaty issue in the coming 1920 presidential campaign with a “solemn referendum” (indirect popular vote?)
He hoped this would get people to vote for the League of Nations but it failed
Warren G. Harding
A genial senator of Ohio who became a leading presidential candidate
He is a Republican
swept into power
Harding was swept into power w/ 16+ mil votes vs. Cox’s 9+ mil votes
The electoral count was 404 to 127 respectively
“return to normalcy”
People were tired of Wilsonianism and desired to “return to normalcy”
They were willing to accept a second rate president, and ended up with a third rate
undercut at the start (689)
Refers to a situation where a project, plan, or organization is weakened from the very beginning due to a significant lack of support or resources.
The League of Nations was undercut at the start because the United States, the most powerful nation at the time, refused to join which reduced the league's strength and influence.
played into the hands
Means to unintentionally benefit or enable someone else’s goals or plans, often to one’s own disadvantage. The League of Nation’s collapse and the failed Treaty of Versailles accidentally empowered Hitler, allowing him to exploit the weakened political structure in Europe and grow his plan for Germany.
hurt its own cause
The United States hurt their own long-term security and influence by avoiding international responsibility and leadership after WWI, weakening global stability and contributing to the conditions that led to WWII.
resolutely embraced
Resolutely embraced = to accept or commit to something with determination without unwavering commitment
The United States should have firmly and decisively taken its role as a global leader, following through on Wilson’s vision to ensure international stability after WWI.
“Realists”
People who believe that international relations are governed by practical and harsh realities rather than ideals or moral aspirations. They believe that nations operate in a chaotic, competitive global environment where military power and self-interest are essential for security instead of worrying about cooperative international institutions and morals.
Realists at the time: George F. Kennan and Henry Kissinger criticized Wilson as unrealistic for his idea of a peaceful and law-abiding world shaped by American values.
“liberal” defense
The argument was made by supporters of Wilson’s vision who believed that his idealism was a form of “higher realism”. They believed that Wilson’s approach recognized the need for a peaceful international framework to prevent the scale of destruction seen in WWI. This perspective was rooted in a liberal belief that with intelligence and determination the world can be improved.
Contrasts the realist view; optimism and morals
“idealistic” Wilsonian strain
The “idealistic” Wilsonian strain emphasizes Wilson’s abstract ideals and high principles over economic interests. US’s historical isolation and minimal financial stakes abroad lead Wilson and his successors to advocate for values like democracy and self-determination to gain public support, believing that such ideals would ultimately benefit all parties involved.
Class Discussion Questions
How did Wilson mobilize America’s factories and its workforce?
Wilson convinced the public to save resources like food (bread and meat) for the workforce with propaganda.
More diversity- women were getting hired for jobs (factory work, nurses)
Wilson created a War Industries Board to set production standards and coordinate railroad and shipping efforts.
Daylight Savings (saving energy) allowed there to be more work hours and more production of products.
Work or Fight Slogan- or ration food (grow their own or eat less).
Voluntary Compliance = you did it because you want to…no laws force people to do these things. They do it because this propaganda is working
How did WW1 impact America's women, consumers, and soldiers?
Women were admitted into the armed forces for the first time
They took jobs men predominately did, such as sports, entertainment etc
People rationed food which left more for the soldiers.
Draft Act of 1917
Sheppard Towner Maternity Act
NAWSA- support Wilson and war
Split-NWP-Pacifists
Victory Gardens, Ration booklets
Women were in the military
Women’s groups were still fighting for suffrage in order to help
Some women = pacifists, opposing violence and participation in the war effort. (National Woman’s Party)
Larger part of the women's suffrage movement = represented by the National American Woman Suffrage Association; supported the war. They thought women needed to take part in the war effort to help shape peace.
Related to Reading Check Discussion Questions
America’s greatest contribution: not fighting/battles, but supplying Manpower
Soldiers, firearms, and oil was really important
Russia was taken out because of Bolshevik revolution and German can focus on the western Front
Battles: Saint Mihiel (US joins with France), 2nd Battle of the Marne, Meuse-Argone
The Draft
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
HIPPO: “A World Safe for Democracy”
H: Historical Context
World War 1 (1914-1918) Allies vs Central Powers
The US had been neutral
Women's suffrage
War rationing at home
Peacetime Economy to Wartime economy
I: Intended Audience
65th Congress 1st Session
The American people
P: Point of View
President of the United States : Woodrow Wilson
Democratic President, conservative turned into militant progressive
Pacifist who no longer believes neutrality is an option
New freedom (traffic, trusts, banks)
P: Purpose
Retract neutrality proclamation and justify going to war
Prove his point and explain to the people why the world needs to be a safe place for democracy
O: Outside Information
Declaration of Independence - because this is what first gave our country democracy and he is talking about a world that is safe for this democracy
The 14 Points
Treaty of Versailles in 1919
The Draft Act of 1917
Zimmerman Letter
Creel’s propaganda (encouraged people to enlist)
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
What kind of contributions did the US make to the war effort in mid-1918?
Participation in many of the final battles of the war (2nd battle of Marne)
St. Mihiel - US joins French Forces
Credits and loans to allied powers
Lots of manpower to help fill the lines (Idea that US could continue sending soldiers was a threat to Germany)
Ammunition
Foodstuffs
Oil (War supplies)
Help bring a end to the war
What were the key issues and obstacles to long-term peace?
Trying to figure out who to blame for the war (Germany)
Establishing borders
Wilson’s backing- reservations
Paris Peace Conference Dominated by the big 4- US, Italy, Britain and France
Isolationists support staying neutral in foreign affairs
Why did the Treaty of Versailles fail to win ratification in the U.S Senate?
Isolationist congressmen (irreconcilables) did not support the treaty or the League of Nations
Most Americans supported the Treaty
President Wilson gave speeches across the country to appeal to the public
- Wilson suffered a stroke
Senator Lodge- came up with fourteen reservations (changes) to the Treaty of Versailles (Wilson disagrees)
Wilson strongly opposed the reservations, and after the Senate rejected the Treaty twice, the Treaty of Versailles was defeated
What was the impact of the 1920 presidential election on the future of the U.S? Explain!
Republicans nominated Senator warren G. Harding
Democrats nominated Pro-League Governor James M. Cox
Settle the treaty issue: Wilson thought if a Republican won, the treaty would be gone and the League of Nations would end, but if a Democrat won, they would support the treaty
Harding won & was used to get rid of the League of Nations
If it still existed, it might’ve been able to prevent WW2
MC Practice - Factory Girl
14: D
The Progressive Party would most likely agree with this because they’re always calling for political reforms. The author also opens with bashing the “liberals, conservatives, and radicals” justifying why Progressives would say this.
15: B
They would lead to government intervention in business practices because the author seems to believe government involvement would stop problems like these.
16: B
This is the correct choice because the rapid expansion of industry caused more opportunities for dangerous factory conditions to occur.