Chapter 16

Chapter 16: World War I and Its Aftermath

Overview

  • General John J. Pershing commanded the American Expeditionary Force in several battles against the Central Powers during World War I.

  • The U.S. tried to remain neutral at the war's start in 1914, but attacks on U.S. ships led to involvement in the conflict.

Lesson 1: The United States Enters World War I

  • Key Events Leading to U.S. Involvement

    • War in Europe broke out in 1914.

    • U.S. attempts to maintain neutrality eroded due to aggressions against American shipping.

    • President Wilson's stance against entering the war changed due to escalating tensions and attacks.

  • Contributions to the War Effort

    • The U.S. government adopted progressive measures to mobilize the economy and resources for war.

    • America’s involvement had lasting impacts on society and post-war dynamics.

Lesson 2: The Home Front

  • Economic Management

    • Wartime Agencies:

      • Establishment of agencies like the War Industries Board and the Food Administration to manage resources and production.

      • The WIB coordinated war materials, while the Food Administration encouraged conservation and production at home.

    • Mobilization of Workforce:

      • Formation of the National War Labor Board to manage labor relations and prevent strikes.

      • Significant increase in union membership as workers demanded better wages and conditions.

  • Social Changes

    • Women and minorities entered the workforce and took on roles traditionally held by men due to labor shortages.

    • Migration of African Americans and Mexicans into cities for better job opportunities.

  • Racial and Civil Unrest

    • Post-war tensions led to race riots and strikes across the country.

    • African Americans faced discrimination from returning soldiers and economic downturns after the war.

Lesson 3: A Bloody Conflict

  • Military Technology and Tactics

    • Introduction to modern warfare technologies: machine guns, tanks, and airplanes drastically changed combat strategies.

    • Stalemate on the Western Front led to high casualties and trench warfare.

  • U.S. Troops' Role

    • The arrival of American troops in 1917 boosted Allied morale, despite initial inexperience.

    • Major battles included Cantigny and Château-Thierry, showcasing American valor and tactical improvements.

Lesson 4: The War's Impact

  • Post-War Economic Turmoil

    • Rapid inflation and a lack of jobs due to the end of war production created economic instability.

    • The Seattle General Strike and the Boston Police Strike highlighted labor unrest.

  • Red Scare and Palmer Raids

    • Rising fears of communism post-war led to a crackdown on perceived radicals, including deportations and civil liberties violations.

    • A. Mitchell Palmer's raids reflected societal fears but ultimately lacked substantive evidence of conspiracy.

  • Political Climate

    • The election of Warren G. Harding in 1920 called for a return to normalcy, reflecting public desire for stability after war hardships.