How did Germany's policy of unrestricted submarine warfare affect American public opinion regarding involvement in World War I?

Unrestricted submarine warfare, particularly the sinking of passenger ships like the Lusitania, angered Americans and swayed public opinion towards intervention.

Explain the main message of the Zimmerman Telegram and why it was significant in shifting U.S. foreign policy towards Germany.

The Zimmerman Telegram proposed a military alliance between Germany and Mexico if the U.S. entered the war against Germany. In return, Mexico would recover territories lost to the U.S. It inflamed American public opinion and solidified support for war.

In what ways did President Woodrow Wilson frame the American intervention in World War I as a defense of democracy?

Wilson argued that the U.S. was fighting to make the world 'safe for democracy' by opposing autocratic regimes and promoting self-determination for nations.

Describe one economic motivation that influenced the United States to join World War I.

The U.S. had significant economic investments and loans to Allied nations. A victory for the Central Powers would have jeopardized these investments and disrupted international trade.

How did the sinking of the Lusitania contribute to the United States' entry into World War I?

The sinking of the Lusitania, a British passenger liner with American citizens aboard, by a German U-boat, outraged the American public and increased pressure on the government to take action against Germany.

Why the U.S. Entered World War I

12th GradeSocial Studies55 min

aligned to Us.24 - Explain The Reasons For American Entry Into World War I, Including: The Use Of Unrestricted Submarine Warfare, The Zimmerman Telegram, The Defense Of Democracy, And Economic Motivations.

Learning Objective

I can explain how unrestricted submarine warfare, the Zimmerman Telegram, the defense of democracy, and economic motivations led to American entry into World War I.

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10 min

How World War I Started: Crash Course World History 209

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17 min

10 questions • Multiple choice & Short answer

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5 min

“Describe the series of declarations of war between European powers that occurred in late July and early August of 1914, following the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand.”

Why the U.S. Entered World War I

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