US Inclusion In World War I

Words: 850
Pages: 4

The inclusion of the United States in the First World War was the point, where the values that made America, became dysfunctional. President Woodrow Wilson orchestrated and launched a national campaign of propaganda, hiding behind the farce of unanimous public support. The move started the American war machinery, evident till today. A draft was initiated, making military service compulsory for adult male Americans. It started to seem as if every platform was supporting Woodrow`s cause. Be it the media, the business community or the politicians, every possible resource was utilized. There were some exceptions though; one significant example was Emma Goldman and her movement.
United States did fight off the urge to join though. The war began in 1914 and continued till the fall of 1918. The United States only joined the war in 1917 as a reaction to the sinking of 3 merchant ships by a German U-boat. The war machinery had brought almost $3 billion in commerce with the Allies during the first 3 years of the war. The ammunition lobby of the United States saw this
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Its inclusion was ensured by an attack on three merchant ships by a German submarine. The outcome of the war made United States a hero for the world. Its military might was acknowledged and respected globally. Before joining the war, US had neutral ties with both sides, and hence had no power or influence on either side because of the neutrality. But staying neutral was never a long term solution. As it was made up of many immigrants from the warring nations, it was prone to be divisive. After the war, the economic indicators meant for the war machinery became redundant, in addition to the growing discord and suspicion amongst citizens and of their government. Now the US government charges anyone and everyone casting suspicions on its right to wage war on other nations through laws like the Espionage