What Happened On April 6th?
Pre-war America came to an end on April 6th, 1917 when President Woodrow Wilson stood before a joint session of Congress. Delivering a famous speech, he declared war on Germany, formally dragging the United States into the bloody conflict raging across Europe. However, simmering tensions and shifting public opinion ultimately pushed America to abandon its initial stance of neutrality.
The Great War, as it was known then, had begun in 1914, embroiling European powers in a brutal struggle. Initially, President Wilson, a staunch believer in neutrality, advocated for America to remain uninvolved. He believed the U.S. could serve as a mediator, promoting peace and democracy.
However, public opinion in America remained divided. While some citizens supported neutrality, others felt a strong kinship with Britain and France, traditional allies, and worried about the rise of German militarism.
Poking The Bear
In May 1915, a German U-boat sank the British passenger liner Lusitania off the coast of Ireland. Nearly 1,200 people perished, including 128 Americans. Now that American civilians were involved, outrage grew in America. The sinking was seen as a deliberate attack on innocent civilians, a blatant disregard for human life. Consequently, public pressure on President Wilson intensified to take a stronger stance against Germany.
Adding fuel to the fire was the interception of a coded message, later dubbed the Zimmermann Telegram, in early 1917. Sent by the German Foreign Minister to the German ambassador in Mexico, the telegram proposed an alliance between Germany and Mexico. Germany promised to help Mexico regain territories lost to the U.S. if Mexico sided with them in the war. This blatant attempt to draw Mexico into the conflict on Germany’s side further eroded American neutrality.
The Last Straw
Germany’s resumption of unrestricted submarine warfare in the North Atlantic and Mediterranean in February 1917 was the tipping point. This tactic, aimed at crippling British trade, posed a direct threat to American commerce and potentially endangered American lives. President Wilson, weary of German aggression and appealing to the emotions of public opinion, decided decisive action was necessary.
On April 2nd, 1917, President Wilson addressed Congress, outlining the reasons for war. He condemned Germany’s unrestricted submarine warfare, its disregard for neutral rights, and its attempts to destabilize the Western Hemisphere. He argued that America’s entry into the war was not just about self-defense, but a fight for democracy and a world order based on justice.
Despite overriding Wilson’s veto for the Immigration Act Of 1917 two months prior, Congress approved a declaration of war. So four days later on April 6th, Congress formally made America a belligerent in World War I.
Responding To Violence
While the sinking of the Lusitania undoubtedly galvanized public outrage, it wasn’t the sole factor pushing America towards war. Prior incidents, like the German U-boat attack on the American tanker Gulflight in 1915, had already stoked anti-German sentiment. Furthermore, Germany’s sabotage campaign within the U.S., targeting factories and infrastructure, fueled a sense of vulnerability and a desire for retaliation.
The Country Had Mixed Feelings
It’s important to remember that American society wasn’t monolithic in its support for war. A vocal anti-war movement, fueled by pacifist ideals and socialist leanings, actively protested against American involvement. These groups argued that the war was a European conflict not worth American blood and treasure. German-Americans, a rather large population segment at the time, also faced suspicion and discrimination during this period.
America Prepares For War
Once the decision for war was made, the U.S. government started its massive mobilization effort. The Selective Service Act, passed in 1917, established a draft for the first time in American history. Propaganda posters and films were used to stir patriotic fervor and encourage enlistment. Women, although not allowed to fight, entered the workforce in unprecedented numbers, filling industrial jobs vacated by men sent to the frontlines.
From a nation focused on isolationism, America’s entrance was seen as a major player in a global conflict. This newfound position of power would have lasting consequences, shaping the course of the 20th century and propelling the U.S. towards a more prominent role in international affairs.
The Devastation
The human cost of World War I for the United States was staggering. Over 116,000 American soldiers lost their lives in the conflict, leaving a trail of grief and devastation across the nation.
However, America’s involvement majorly helped tip the scales in favor of the Allied Powers, ultimately contributing to the defeat of Germany. Thus, the Allies and Germany ceased fire on November 11th, 1918, known as Armistice Day. However, this war along with America’s involvement planted the seeds for future conflicts, including World War II.
What Did You Learn?
My condolences goes out to all the brave American soldiers who lose their lives during the war.
Thank you, and see you in the next.
