The Impact of Unrestricted Naval Warfare on America's Entry into WWI
During WWI, Germany’s policy of unrestricted naval warfare led to significant tensions with the United States. Germany threatened to attack any ship in designated war zones, ultimately sinking vessels like the Lusitania, which carried American passengers. This policy, combined with the Zimmermann Note proposing a Germany-Mexico alliance, pushed America towards war. On April 2, 1917, President Wilson addressed Congress, emphasizing the need to ensure global safety, marking a pivotal moment in U.S. history as it formally entered the conflict.
The Impact of Unrestricted Naval Warfare on America's Entry into WWI
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Presentation Transcript
Germany’s Unrestricted Naval Warfare • Germany began using “unrestricted naval warfare” • They said they would attack any ship • America would not like this because ___________________?
Unrestricted Naval Warfare • Germany began sinking ships, including ones that had American passengers on board • The most famous was the Lusitania (1915) • British ship (unarmed but carrying munitions) • They were warned to stay away – didn’t listen • 1,198 people died • 128 were American
Unrestricted Naval Warfare U.S. and Germany signed the Sussex Pledge in 1916 to stop unrestricted naval warfare In 1917 Germany threatened to start up again
Zimmermann Note • German foreign minister sent a telegram to the German ambassador in Mexico • The British intercepted the note – showed it to the U.S. • Suggested an alliance between Germany and Mexico • If war broke out with the U.S. • Germany would support Mexico and help them regain territories in Texas, Arizona, and New Mexico
U.S. Goes to War April 2, 1917 Wilson made a speech before Congress What must we (America) make the world safe for? Look at Document #2!!
