Causes of WWI

1. Causes of WWI Militarism—Nations built up their militaries in order to protect their empires. Alliance System—Because of all the competition and disputes, countries made alliances with each other in case of attack. Imperialism—Nations were competing for lands around the world creating tension between nations. Nationalism—Countries are concerned with their own interests over global cooperation. Assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand—The heir to the Austrian throne is killed. This brings countries to war, because of the Alliance system.

2. Why the U.S. Was Neutral • Fighting was 3,000 miles away. • No threat to U.S. lives or property. • Millions of Americans still had strong ties to the country of their ancestors. Neither side had strong support from a majority of Americans. • Did not want sons to be soldiers. • Wilson was waiting for “overt acts” against the U.S.

3. U.S. Support for the Allies Grows • Allies— Britain, France, and Russia. • Central Powers— Germany, Austria-Hungary, and the Ottoman Empire. • Many felt close to the British (language & ancestry). • Germany’s aggressive actions. • Economic ties to allies, but little ties to central powers.

4. U.S. Moves to Join the War • Germany declares unrestricted submarine warfare. (U-Boats) • Lusitania is sunk. 1198 people killed, 128 Americans. • Arabic and Sussex are also attacked. • Wilson wants peace—“Peace without victory.” • Zimmerman Note—Intercepted by British. • Germany would ally with Mexico. • They would help Mexico regain territory lost to the U.S. • U.S. declares war on 4/6/1917.