Transcript Slide 1
World War One America’s Entry Into War Deteriorating German/American relations: U-Boat activity Statements by Kaiser Wilhelm II treatment of Belgium impact of propaganda America sympathizes with Allies; not ready to enter war The Zimmermann Note Telegram sent from German ambassador to MX; proposes alliance against US Denied by both Ger. and MX; discovered by British agents Impact: Germans break the Sussex Pledge, resume sinking ships without warning German Ambassador Arthur Zimmermann Final breaking point with Germany; Kaiser prepares for war with America America Declares War (April 2, 1917) US formally breaks relations after 6 US ships sunk, with over 200 casualties. Also Britain and France appeal to Wilson for help America Prepares for War Wilson reorganizes American society for war; greatest degree of govt. control in history. Attempts to sell war as a “war to end all wars” and to “make the world safe for democracy”. Makes war a “moral crusade”; ex. The Fourteen Points The Fourteen Points (Jan., 1918) Wilson’s goals for the war: “freedom of the seas” – no Uboats or blockades “reduction of worldwide trade barriers” – increases economic alliances “self-determination for imperial holdings” – colonies should govern themselves “self-determination for AustriaHungary” no secret treaties re-creation of Poland arms and naval limitations Copy of Wilson’s speech on the 14 Points The League of Nations The 14th and most important Point; Wilson sacrifices all else for “an association of nations” for “collective security”; a multinational alliance between nations US Prepares for War Government organizes propaganda campaign to generate support for the war Committee on Public Information – designed to give “news” on info on the war Use of propaganda; control of news media Use of Propaganda Films Use of the new film industry to promote the war; both newsreels and Hollywood movies used George Creel The Espionage and Sedition Acts Meant to suppress anti-war efforts or speeches Acts deemed as “un-American” could mean jail or deportation, suspended First Amendment Eugene Debs arrested, sentenced to life in prison, later pardoned by Pres. Harding The War Industries Board An attempt to put US economy toward a war basis All production toward war effort Wages, prices and production controlled by Board Led by Bernard Baruch The War Industries Board Use of women in war factories Led to passage of 19th Amendment Women also used to sell the war and sell bonds The Food Administration Organized food conservation efforts and the planting of “liberty gardens” The Food Administration Relied on appeals and propaganda campaigns Cigarettes Win the War! Paying for the War War financed through borrowing (the “liberty bond”) Sold billions of $$ Use of celebrities The Draft 4 million drafted; 2 mil. sent to combat; poorly trained; lack of equipment, officers