Why the U.S. Entered World War I

12th Gradeβ€’55 minutesβ€’US.24 - Explain the reasons for American entry into World War I, including: the use of unrestricted submarine warfare, the Zimmerman Telegram, the defense of democracy, and economic motivations.

Learning Objective

I can explain how unrestricted submarine warfare, the Zimmerman Telegram, the defense of democracy, and economic motivations led to American entry into World War I.

Practice Questions

This lesson includes 10 practice questions to reinforce learning.

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1. How did Germany's policy of unrestricted submarine warfare affect American public opinion regarding involvement in World War I?

2. Explain the main message of the Zimmerman Telegram and why it was significant in shifting U.S. foreign policy towards Germany.

3. In what ways did President Woodrow Wilson frame the American intervention in World War I as a defense of democracy?

...and 7 more questions

Educational Video

How World War I Started: Crash Course World History 209

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