America Goes to War - 1917

Overview of America's Entry into World War I

This guide captures the key events, legislation, and public sentiment regarding the United States' entry into World War I, covering the period leading up to the war, the impact of various incidents, and the ultimate decision to engage militarily.

Initial Position of the United States

• Neutrality:

  • The U.S. initially aimed to maintain a neutral stance while the war raged in Europe.

  • President Woodrow Wilson was re-elected in 1916 with the slogan "He kept us out of the war," emphasizing a policy of isolationism.

Propaganda and Public Sentiment

• Public Image:

  • Art and propaganda from various sources, such as "Life" magazine, contributed to the evolving sentiment regarding the war.

• Calls for Service:

  • Recruitment campaigns, such as the famous "I Want You for the U.S. Army" poster, encouraged men to enlist.

Factors Leading to American Involvement

• Unrestricted Submarine Warfare:

  • Germany's practice of sinking enemy vessels without prior warning was a significant violation of international law.

  • Ships carrying civilians must be warned before an attack to ensure passenger safety.

  • Germany frequently ignored these laws, escalating tensions with the U.S.

• The Sinking of the Lusitania:

  • Event Details:

    • A British passenger liner carrying American citizens was sunk without warning off the coast of Ireland.

    • Casualties included 1,198 people, of which 128 were American, galvanizing public opinion against Germany.

  • German Claims:

    • Germany justified the attack by asserting the Lusitania was transporting contraband including war materials such as guns and ammunition.

  • Impact:

    • Marked a turning point in American attitudes toward neutrality.

• The Sussex Pledge:

  • Following the Lusitania incident, Germany vowed not to target merchant or passenger ships without warning after the sinking of the Sussex, which killed two Americans.

  • This pledge was a temporary measure to alleviate U.S. concerns but was broken shortly after.

• The Zimmerman Telegram:

  • Event Details:

    • Released in March 1917, this communication proposed a military alliance between Germany and Mexico should the U.S. enter the war.

    • Germany promised Mexico the reconquest of lost territories: Texas, New Mexico, and Arizona.

  • Public Reaction:

    • The telegram outraged the American public and politicians alike, fueling war sentiments.

Declaration of War

• Formal Declaration:

  • On April 2, 1917, President Wilson asked Congress for a declaration of war against Germany.

  • Congress formally declared war on April 6, 1917, marking America's entry into World War I.

War Strategy and Transportation

• Convoy System:

  • Implemented to ensure the safe passage of ships across the Atlantic.

  • Involved groups of ships traveling together with naval escort to protect against submarine attacks.

Conclusion

This guide encapsulates the core events leading to America's involvement in World War I, illustrating the complex interplay of diplomacy, military strategy, and public sentiment that ultimately spurred the U.S. into conflict. The infractions of international law by Germany, particularly through unrestricted submarine warfare and the infamous Zimmerman Telegram, were pivotal in shifting American opinion towards war. The establishment of recruitment campaigns and the implementation of protective measures like the convoy system further demonstrate the U.S. government's commitment to mobilizing for the war effort.