World War I Flashcards
Lusitania
Once was the world’s largest ship. Was sunk by the German U-Boat submarine U-20 on May 7, 1915 killing 1195 passengers, including 128 Americans.
Randolph Bourne
Led Anti-War sentiment within US. Greatly influenced by “Democracy vs. the Melting Pot”. Wrote Trans-National America essay, arguing that immigrants should retain their national literature and culture.
League of Nations
Proposed 3 times before Congress and still failed. US never joined LON.
Zimmerman Telegram
Sent by Germany to Mexico, but intercepted by the UK. Wanted to entice Mexico to attack the US, and in return Texas, Arizona and New Mexico is returned to Mexico. Sent January 19, 1917, and helped spur anti-German sentiment.
Espionage & Sedition Acts
TBA
Fourteen Points
Speech by W Wilson on January 8, 1918 highlighted the following suggestions:
1. Reliance on open diplomacy rather than secret agreements
2. Freedom of the seas
3. Free trade
4. Reduce the military forces and/or weapons
5. Readjust the colonies fairly
6.-13. Give various countries their independence, right to create their own government, or self-determination.
14. The formation of a League of Nations to guarantee independence for all countries, large and small
Wilson failed at passing the points, but gained a 1919 Nobel Prize for his efforts.
Russian Revolution
TBA
100% Americanism
White, Protestant, US born Americans
Henry Cabot Lodge
Republican Senator and historian from Massachusetts. Battled with W Wilson in 1919 over the Treaty of Versailles. Vocal supporter of immigration restrictions because he was concerned about the assimilation of immigrants with an American culture. Opposed League of Nations, Treaty of Versailles and 14 points. Opposed ToV, because it did not call for unconditional surrender. UN was built in Lodge’s favored vision.
John Dewey
Philosophy professor who protested the decision of the Allies in Paris to cede the German held territories in Shandong province to Japan. Led Pro-War sentiment within US to enter WWI.
Wilson’s War Declaration
April 6, 1917
Treaty of Versailles
Signed June 28, 1919.
French View: suffered the most damage and human loss and therefore was adamant about reparations. Determined the 132 billion marks reparation price.
As a result, territories were forfeited, the German military was neutered, reparations were paid, Germany was made to accept blame for the war, and Wilhelm II (German Emperor) was to be tried. Instead Wilhelm was abdicated and he fled to exile in the Netherlands. Officially ended WWI. Wilson didn’t take any Republicans with him. HCL fought Wilson tooth and nail.
