Causes & Terms
Define "militarism."
The belief that a country should maintain a strong military and be prepared to use it to defend or promote national interests.
Who was assassinated in 1914 and what happened as a result?
Archduke Franz Ferdinand from Austria-Hungary; started a war with Serbia and then divided into WW1
What was one danger of poison gas used in WWI?
It could choke, blind, or burn soldiers and caused panic and long-term injuries.
What was the main reason the U.S. entered WWI?
Germany's unrestricted submarine warfare and attacks on ships that threatened American lives and commerce.
True or False — The Treaty of Versailles treated Germany fairly following the war.
False
Define "alliances."
Agreements between countries to support each other in case of war.
What happened when the Lusitania sank in 1915 and why was it important to the United States?
A German U-boat sank the British passenger ship Lusitania, killing civilians including Americans; it increased U.S. anger toward Germany.
Why were armored tanks first used in WWI?
To cross difficult ground, break through trench lines, and provide protection while advancing.
Which U.S. president used "Big Stick" diplomacy before WWI and what did it mean?
Theodore Roosevelt; it meant being fair but also showing military strength to intimidate other nations.
Name one major term of the Treaty of Versailles that punished Germany.
Germany had to accept blame for the war, pay heavy reparations, reduce its military, and give up territory.
Define "imperialism."
When a country extends its power by taking control of other lands or peoples, often for resources or strategic advantage.
Map Task: Label and color these countries as Allied, Central, or Neutral: Germany, Great Britain, Austria-Hungary, Russia, France, Ottoman Empire, Italy.
Allied — Great Britain, Russia, France, (later) Italy; Central — Germany, Austria-Hungary, Ottoman Empire
What was the goal of Germany's Unrestricted Submarine Warfare?
To sink enemy (and neutral) ships supplying Britain and its allies to cut off supplies.
How did yellow journalism affect public opinion about going to war?
Sensationalized newspaper stories increased public anger and support for intervention.
What was the ultimate goal of the League of Nations?
To prevent future wars and settle disputes between countries.
Define "nationalism."
Strong pride in and loyalty to one's nation; sometimes leads groups to want independence or to dominate others.
What was the name of the African American infantry group placed under French command that bravely fought in WWI?
The Harlem Hellfighters
Name two ways warfare changed in WWI compared to earlier wars.
Use of trench warfare and introduction of new technologies like chemical weapons, tanks, and airplanes/submarines.
Explain one way World War I helped the United States gain international power.
By playing a decisive military and economic role, the U.S. emerged as a leading world power with greater influence over global affairs and postwar settlements.
Define "No Man's Land" and explain why trenches were built.
"No Man's Land" was the dangerous area between opposing trenches that was exposed to fire; trenches were built to protect soldiers from gunfire and artillery and to hold front lines.
What methods were used to convince Americans to support the war effort and raise money?
Propaganda posters, yellow journalism, war bonds, rationing campaigns.
What is Wilson's "14 Points" and what did they help create?
Peace Plan, called to create a League of Nations to prevent future wars