Understanding WWI Propaganda and America's Entry into the War
This overview explores the role of propaganda in World War I, focusing on techniques used, governmental goals, and the pivotal events leading to America's involvement in the conflict. Techniques such as emotional appeal, misinformation, and fear tactics were commonly employed in propaganda posters. Governments aimed to mobilize citizens for war and create a unified national sentiment. One notable poster from the United States depicted a sinking ship, evoking the Lusitania tragedy to promote enlistment. This examination illustrates how propaganda influenced public perception and political decisions during WWI.
Understanding WWI Propaganda and America's Entry into the War
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Presentation Transcript
Review • 1) List at least 3 techniques used in propaganda • 2) List at least 2 goals a government might want to accomplish with a propaganda poster • 3) Describe one propaganda poster that was discussed yesterday. List the: • country of origin • the technique used • the goal of the poster
Neutrality • In the beginning the United States wanted to remain neutral. • Wilson issues declaration of neutrality in 1914.
Neutrality • Why did Wilson not want the U.S. to be involved in the war?
What pulled America into the War • Unrestricted submarine warfare • The sinking of the Lusitania • Sussex Pledge is broken • The Zimmerman Telegram
Unrestricted Submarine (u-boat) warfare • Germany would begin sinking ships without warning • In the Atlantic, around Britain
The Sinking of the Lusitania • British passenger liner that set sail from New York carrying American citizens. • It was sunk without warning on May 7, 1915 off the coast of Ireland
The Sinking of the Lusitania • Over 1,100 died; 120+ were US citizens • Germans claimed the Lusitania was carrying contraband (war materials: guns, ammunition…) • They were right!
RESULT of the Sinking of the Lusitania • Germany, despite promises, sunk another ship – The Sussex, killing 2 Americans • President Wilson protested and Germany issued the Sussex Pledge • passenger ships won’t be targeted • Merchant ships wont be either, unless presence of weapons is established
Sussex Pledge • The Sussex Pledge broken: February 1, 1917 Germany continued unrestricted submarine warfare
Zimmermann Telegram • March 1917 The Zimmermann telegram released • If the U.S. entered War against Central Powers, Mexico should attack the U.S. and receive as a reward: Texas, New Mexico, and Arizona. • How do you think Americans felt about this?
Zimmermann Telegram • Why would Germany want the U.S. to remain neutral?
America Declares War • April 2, 1917 • President Wilson asked Congress for a declaration of war • April 6, 1917 Congress declares war!!