Causes
What is militarism?
Building up a country's military (army, navy) for protection.
What secret message from Germany to Mexico promised U.S. land in exchange for joining the war against the United States?
What was Storm Cellar Diplomacy?
Staying out of conflict until it was over, like staying in a storm cellar during a hurricane.
What shortages did the U.S. face when entering the war?
Food, supplies, and workers.
What was the main purpose of Woodrow Wilson’s 14 Points?
To outline a plan for lasting peace and prevent future wars after World War I.
What is nationalism?
Intense pride and devotion to one’s country.
What was the name of the British passenger ship sunk by Germany in 1915 that increased tensions between the United States and Germany?
Lusitania
What were the Neutrality Acts?
Laws that kept the United States from siding with any nation to avoid entering war.
How did the U.S. overcome these challenges?
By rationing, increasing production, and mobilizing the workforce, including women and minorities.
What was the main goal of the Treaty of Versailles?
To officially end World War I and establish peace terms for Germany and the Allies.
What is imperialism?
When a more powerful country dominates a less powerful country for economic, military, or political gain.
What style of warfare involved soldiers fighting from deep ditches and led to high casualties with little land gained?
Trench Warfare
What was unrestricted U-boat warfare?
German submarines attacking ships without warning, including the sinking of the Lusitania.
What policy did the United States follow at the beginning of World War I in order to avoid involvement in European conflicts?
Isolationism
How did the Treaty of Versailles punish Germany?
Germany had to accept blame for the war, pay reparations, reduce its military, and give up territory.
What is the alliance system?
Agreements between countries to come to each other’s aid in a fight.
What country was split up into spheres of influence?
China
What was the Zimmerman Telegram?
A coded message from Germany to Mexico asking them to attack the U.S., which was intercepted.
What treaty officially ended World War I and placed blame and heavy penalties on Germany?
The Treaty of Versailles
What international organization did Wilson propose in the 14 Points to maintain peace?
The League of Nations
What event sparked World War I?
The assassination of Archduke Ferdinand.
Why was imperialism a cause of tension globally before WWI?
Countries competed for colonies, resources, and influence, increasing the risk of conflict.
How did the Russian Revolution influence the U.S. decision to enter the war?
Russia left the war, and the Allies risked losing, so the U.S. intervened to help win.
What was the name of President Woodrow Wilson’s peace plan that included the idea of a League of Nations?
Wilson's 14 Points
How did the Treaty of Versailles contribute to future conflict?
Harsh treatment of Germany caused resentment, economic hardship, and set the stage for World War II.