1. U.S. Involvement in WWI Essential Question: How did the U.S. transition from neutrality to war?

2. US was neutral for 3 years during war. Poll of 1915: 88% of Americans against fighting. Poll of 1917: Majority of Americans favored war. Why? -European Alliances, 1914

3. Leaned toward the Allies from outset (G.B., France) German War Tactics Connection w/ G.B. British blockade of German ports German use of unrestricted submarine warfare Violated neutrality laws

4. May 1 st 1915, the Lusitania, a British liner, set sail from NY to Liverpool w/ 1,959 on board Attacked by German U-boat on May 7 th off coast of Ireland w/ two torpedoes Ship sank in 15 minutes Attack left 1,198 dead, including 139 Americans P. Wilson’s protest led to temporary stop of German unrestricted submarine warfare. -German warning to American passengers posted in American newspapers prior to Lusitania voyage.

5. February 1917, British intercepted telegram from Germany’s foreign secretary Arthur Zimmerman to German ambassador of Mexico. Message stated that Germany would help Mexico reconquer territories of Arizona, Texas, and N.M. if Mexico would ally w/ Germany. U.S. declared war on April 2 nd, 1917 -Decoded text of Zimmerman Telegram.

6. Selective Service Act U.S. military utterly unprepared Existence of segregation and discrimination

7. Convoy system used to transport troops and supplies Despite grim circumstances, General Pershing insisted his troops get more time to train Also insisted they fight in American units

8. Americans in the Trenches

9. Essential Question: How did the U.S. transition from neutrality to war? Why did the U.S. have closer ties to the Allies? What caused the U.S. to enter the war on the side of the Allies? How did the U.S. prepare for war?