jan 1, 1914 - Causation: (Topic 7.5) World War I Causes, and Effects.

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Causes of the War:
• Wilsonian Idealism: President Woodrow Wilson wanted the U.S. to stay neutral but later entered the war to defend democracy and humanitarian values.

• British/French Bias: The U.S. was closer to Britain and France due to cultural ties, making it more sympathetic to the Allies.

• Unrestricted Submarine Warfare: Germany used submarines to sink ships, including those from neutral countries like the U.S., which led to outrage.

• Zimmerman Telegram: Germany sent a secret message to Mexico saying if Mexico fought the U.S. and won, they would get back lost territories (like Texas). This angered the U.S. and pushed them toward war.

2. Debating the War:
• “He Kept Us Out of War” and 1916: President Wilson campaigned for re-election in 1916 with the promise that he would keep the U.S. out of the war, but after a few months, he changed his stance due to events like the Zimmerman Telegram.

• Military Preparation: The U.S. quickly started preparing its military for war, registering millions for the draft and sending troops to Europe.

• Espionage and Sedition Acts: These laws were passed to punish people who spoke out against the war or tried to interfere with military efforts. It limited free speech during wartime.

3. Effects of the War:
• Wilsonian Idealism and his 14 Points: Wilson created a plan for peace after the war, known as the 14 Points, which included ideas like self-determination for countries and no secret treaties. His goal was a fair and lasting peace.

• Treaty of Versailles and its Failure in the U.S.: The Treaty of Versailles ended the war, but the U.S. Senate refused to ratify it. Many senators didn’t want to join the League of Nations, which was part of the treaty, because it would limit U.S. independence in foreign affairs. This led to the failure of the treaty in the U.S.

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