mar 13, 1916 - Sussex Pledge
Description:
Germany promised not to sink anymore American holding ships after the Lusitania incident. But they shortly broke that promise by sinking the "Arabic" which killed two more Americans. Wilson sent a more strictly worded letter and German officials promised once again not to sink any passenger ships without warning. In March 1916, however, they sunk the French liner the "Sussex" which led to more Americans injured. Wilson proceeded to threaten to break off diplomatic relations with Germany if it did not stop surprise attacks. In an agreement called the Sussex pledge, Germany promised to spare all lives in any future U-Boat attacks on merchant ships, but with one condition; The United States must force Britain to end its illegal blockade. Wilson accepted the pledge but would not accept the condition.Added to timeline:
Date:
mar 13, 1916
Now
~ 109 years ago