top of page

Reasons for, and impact of, the USA’s entry into the First World War

8.4 The USA as a World Power

The Rise of Global Powers and International Tensions

 A Level/AS Level/O Level

History Notes

Your Burning Questions Answered!

Analyze the primary reasons behind the United States' initial neutrality in the First World War.

Discuss the complex factors that led to the United States' eventual entry into the war in 1917.

Evaluate the immediate and long-term impacts of the USA's entry on the global balance of power.

To what extent did the USA's role in the war shape the post-war international order?

Compare and contrast the motivations for and the results of the USA's entry into the First World War with those of other major powers.

Reasons for, and impact of, the USA’s entry into the First World War

Chapter 8: The Rise of Global Powers and International Tensions

#8.4 The USA as a World Power: Entering the First World War

1. A Nation Divided: Neutrality and Isolationism

⭐The US initially declared neutrality in 1914. Americans were deeply divided about the war in Europe. Many felt that the conflict was a European affair and that the US should stay out of it. This sentiment was rooted in the traditional American policy of isolationism, which meant avoiding involvement in foreign conflicts.
⭐Economic Ties: Despite neutrality, the US had strong economic ties to both sides of the conflict. They were supplying materials like food and weapons to the Allies (Britain, France, and Russia), while also trading with Germany.
⭐Submarine Warfare: In 1915, Germany began unrestricted submarine warfare, attacking any ship in the Atlantic, including American merchant vessels. This angered the US and intensified the debate about neutrality. The sinking of the Lusitania, a British passenger liner with American citizens aboard, in 1915, further outraged public opinion.
⭐Zimmermann Telegram: In 1917, the intercepted Zimmermann Telegram, a message from Germany to Mexico, revealed a plan to enlist Mexico's help in attacking the US. This enraged the American public and pushed the US closer to war.

2. The Reasons for US Entry

⭐The sinking of American ships: In 1917, German U-boats sunk several American ships carrying supplies to the Allies, including the SS Housatonic. These attacks led to significant public pressure for action.
⭐Germany's unrestricted submarine warfare: Germany's declaration of unrestricted submarine warfare in January 1917 was a major turning point. This policy targeted all ships in the Atlantic, regardless of nationality, and directly threatened American interests.
⭐The Zimmermann Telegram: This secret telegram, intercepted by British intelligence, revealed Germany's plans to form an alliance with Mexico against the US. This further angered Americans and convinced many that Germany was an aggressive and dangerous threat.
⭐The "World Safe for Democracy": President Woodrow Wilson, initially hesitant to enter the war, decided to take action in April 1917. He argued that the US should fight to make the world "safe for democracy" and protect American freedoms from the threat of autocratic powers like Germany.

3. The Impact of US Entry

⭐Turning the tide: The US entry into the war in 1917 was a decisive turning point in the conflict. The US provided fresh troops, supplies, and financial resources to the Allied forces, giving them a much-needed boost.
⭐Ending the war: The US played a significant role in the Allies' final victory in 1918. The American Expeditionary Force (AEF), led by General John J. Pershing, fought bravely in major battles like the Battle of the Meuse-Argonne, contributing significantly to the collapse of the German Army.
⭐The Treaty of Versailles: After the war, the US was a key player in the peace process, advocating for a "just peace" based on Woodrow Wilson's Fourteen Points. However, the US ultimately refused to join the League of Nations, a key part of the Treaty of Versailles, due to isolationist sentiment at home.
⭐Shift in American foreign policy: The war marked a significant shift in American foreign policy. The US emerged from the conflict as a major world power, with a greater sense of responsibility for international affairs. However, the American public was deeply divided over the war's legacy, leading to a resurgence of isolationism in the 1920s.

4. The Long-Term Legacy

⭐The US emerged as a major global power. The war solidified the US's status as a world leader, with significant economic and military influence.
⭐The US played a key role in shaping the postwar world. The US helped create new international organizations like the League of Nations, although it wouldn't join itself.
⭐The war had a lasting impact on American society. The war led to the mobilization of millions of American men and women, impacting their lives on multiple fronts. It also fueled social and political change, particularly for women, who gained greater opportunities in the workforce.

In conclusion, the US entry into World War I was a pivotal moment in American history. It marked a shift from isolationism to a more active role in global affairs. While the war had a profound impact on American society, the debate over the war's legacy and the role of the US in the world continued for decades to come.

Economics Study Pack.png
Economics.png

Crack History Exams With Confidence!

Prepare effortlessly for your A/AS/O-Level exams with our comprehensive History Study Pack.

 

Get instant access to a wealth of resources designed to help you thrive and achieve top grades!

 

What’s Inside?

1200+ Model Essays: Master your essay writing with expertly crafted answers to past paper questions.

Exam Boards Covered: Tailored materials for AQA, Cambridge, and OCR exams.

Take Action Now!

Don’t let exam stress hold you back. Equip yourself with the tools you need to succeed. 

bottom of page