Digital Artifact Project - Century of War
US INVOLVEMENT in World War I
April 2, 1917 - June 28, 1919
- April 2, 1917, Woodrow Wilson requested a declaration of war against Germany; citing Germany's violation of submarine warfare, as well as enticing Mexico into its alliance (Zimmerman telegram).
- Congress approved this request. April 4, 1917, the US was at war with Germany. Later at war with Germany's ally Austria-Hungary on December 7, 1917.
- World War I brought with it many new battlefield technologies, including: airplanes, tanks, and improved naval efforts.
- The uses of trenches, tanks, gases, and even improved weaponry added to the significant combat deaths.
- Submarines, and naval mines were increasingly used. Now, countries were required to have strong navies to counter-act others.
- Airplanes were being introduced for reconnaissance, and early bombing efforts.
- January 8, 1918, Woodrow proposed to Congress a 14-point program for world peace.
- Signing of the Treaty of Versailles officially ended World War I; 3 of Wilson's 14 points were included.
- League of Nations was formed to help resolve international disputes.