America in the First World War Padlet by Lia Revere

Why Did the United States Enter War?

liarevere — 2024-02-22 21:18:50 UTC

There were a multitude of reasons why the U.S. entered WW1 but

The violation of the Susxex pledge: The Germans had a policy of unrestricted naval warfare and sunk the Lusitania in 1915. The Lusitania had U.S. citizens on it, but the U.S. was somewhat lenient with the Germans and decided not to declare war yet. Instead, they both agreed on the Sussex Pledge, which stated that Germany would no longer sink passenger ships. Then in 1917, Germany continued its unrestricted naval warfare.
Zimmerman Telegram
England intercepted a message from Germany to Mexico. The letter stated that if Mexico were to join in an alliance with Germany, then Mexico could recover lost territory with an attack on America.

Important Change 1. The Threat of Balancing Civil Liberty and National Security

liarevere — 2024-02-23 01:42:15 UTC

In 1917, the Espionage Act was passed, which banned interference with drafting and aiding the war effort. A year later, the Sedition Act was passed, banning criticism of the government. The Sedition Act was controversial as some argued it was a violation of the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution. In Schenck V. U.S. the Espionage Act was brought into question when Charles Schenck was arrested for distributing socialist pamphlets to people eligible for the draft. The case ended with the U.S. winning, as the Supreme Court argued that Congress has the power to restrain speech if it presents a clear danger.

Important Change #2 Opportunities For Racial Minorities and Women

liarevere — 2024-02-23 01:57:45 UTC

Because of WWI, more opportunities were given to women and minority groups. Because of the mass weapon production in WW1, more people were needed in the field. So, women stepped up in weapon production jobs for WW1. This was one of the main reasons why the 19th Amendment was finally ratified. As for the minority groups, many of them migrated to the North for better treatment and job opportunities, this was called the Great Migration.

Important Change 3# Economy + Industry Changes

liarevere — 2024-02-23 02:09:38 UTC

America was totally unprepared for war, to correct this America had a Total War mentality. All aspects from food, taxes, and industries were shifted into helping the war. Programs like the U.S. Food Administration and the War Industries Board were dedicating into helping the economy shift into a war time economy.

The Significance of Woodrow Wilson's 14 Points

liarevere — 2024-02-23 02:20:46 UTC

Woodrow Wilson's 14 Points were the basis of peace negotiations for the post-war. Even though not all of his ideas were used, his 14 Points acted as a blueprint for the Treaty of Versailles and the League of Nations.