Why did the United States become involved in the Great War?

1. Unrestricted submarine warfare by the German navy causes the loss of American life and property The sinking of the Lusitania May 10, 1915

2. Germany tried to form an alliance with Mexico (The Zimmerman Telegram) which threatened the security of the United States. 3. The United States political ties to Britain 4. Peace talks failed. The U.S. would officially declare war on Germany April 6, 1917.

The American government and citizens support the war National War Labor Board Liberty bonds Military draft Meatless Tuesdays Victory Gardens

Above left: American troops being drafted into the Army. Above right: Poster reminding us how important home canning is during war time.

Events of the Great War 1.The American Expeditionary Force (AEF), led by General John J. Pershing, arrives in France in June 1917 bringing military support.

2. In 1917, a Communist revolution in Russia causes Russia to withdraw from the war taking with them needed man power for the allies.

3. As a result, Germany moves its troops from the eastern to the western front. 4. However, the Allies are able to push the German army back to the Belgium border. 5. As Germany begins to lose the war, Kaiser Wilhelm I flees and Germany’s new leaders ask for an end to the war.

6. On November 11, 1918 at 11 AM, Germany signs an armistice to end the Great War ( armistice means to cease fire). Allied forces celebrating the armistice agreement

7. In June 1919, the Treaty of Versailles was signed, ending the war. Germany was forced to accept FULL responsibility for the war !! Signing of the peace treaty at Versailles Palace

Wilson’s Fourteen points Self determination No secret agreements (alliances) League of Nations

Results of the World War 1 1. The Treaty of Versailles forces Germany to accept the blame for starting the war, forces them to pay huge reparations, and limits their military power. The Big Four (USA, United Kingdom, Italy & France) meet in Paris to create a treaty ending WW I. Which country was not represented at the negotiations?

2. Germany lost some European territory and colonies and new nations were formed.

3. The League of Nations is formed, but despite President Wilson’s effort Congress will not ratify (approve) the Treaty of Versailles and will not join The League of Nations.

4. The Influenza (Flu) Epidemic of 1918 will sweep the globe killing nearly 50,000 doughboys (American soldiers) and an estimated 500,000 American civilians. The flu will kill more than 20 million people through out the world before it disappears in By the end of the war disease will kill more soldiers than battle.

5. Safe from invasion ! The U.S. would once again practice isolationism after WW 1. Pacific ocean Canada. Small population. Friendly. Mexico. Very poor country. Atlantic ocean

6.Europe, especially Germany, was in ruins. Germany will want revenge on the countries that punished them.

This will pave the way for a man to rise up and lead Germany. He will start World War II. Who is this man?