The Great War and the Great Epidemic - Summary

Causes of WWI and U.S. Response

• Austria-Hungary's Archduke Franz Ferdinand's assassination triggered a series of mutual defense treaties.
• Initially, most Americans remained neutral, benefiting from trade with both sides.

U.S. Enters the War

• Stronger cultural ties to England.
• German U-boat attacks on American ships (e.g., Lusitania).
• The Zimmerman Telegram.
• Revolution in Russia.
• The U.S. joined the war in 1917.

Effects of War at Home

• Increased taxes due to the 16th Amendment.
• The Draft.
• Discrimination against non-Anglo Americans (Espionage and Sedition Acts).
• Discrimination against radical leftist politics (First Red Scare, Palmer Raids).

The Spanish Flu

• Circulated globally during the war's final year.
• Estimated death toll: 25-50 million (possibly twice that).
• Public health responses included venue closures and event cancellations.

Wilson’s Vision Fails

• Wilson aimed for WWI to be “the War to End All Wars” and proposed the League of Nations.
• His efforts failed due to European aims and political opposition at home.

War’s Legacy in the States

• U.S. experienced national pride and turned towards isolationism.
• Contributed to the 19th Amendment.
• Expanded federal government powers.
• Set the stage for economic boom-and-bust and social upheaval.