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World War I Overview for AP History

May 8, 2025

Heimler's History: World War I Overview

Introduction

  • Focus on World War I, part of AP U.S. History curriculum Unit 7.
  • Discussion split into two videos:
    • Current video: Fighting and diplomatic efforts.
    • Next video: Homefront activities.

Outbreak of World War I

  • War began in Europe, July 1914, after Archduke Franz Ferdinand's assassination.
  • Formation of two coalitions:
    • Triple Entente (Allied Powers): Britain, Russia, France.
    • Triple Alliance (Central Powers): Germany, Austria-Hungary, Italy.

U.S. Neutrality Challenges

  • Sinking of the Lusitania (1915):

    • German submarines targeted all ships in war zones.
    • Lusitania, a passenger ship, sunk with 128 Americans aboard.
    • American public outrage, yet maintained neutrality.
  • Unrestricted Submarine Warfare:

    • Germany resumed sinking ships, including American ones.
    • Threatened U.S. diplomacy, nearly leading to war.
  • Zimmermann Telegram:

    • Germany attempted to ally with Mexico against the U.S.
    • Telegram intercepted, revealing Germany's intentions.
    • U.S. declared war on Germany, April 2, 1917, to "make the world safe for democracy."

U.S. Involvement in the War

  • War lasted for 20 more months, U.S. played limited role.
  • American Expeditionary Forces (AEF):
    • Commanded by John J. Pershing.
    • Initially supported French and British lines.
    • Later took command of part of the Western Front.
    • U.S. entry tipped balance in favor of Allies.

Conclusion of the War

  • Treaty of Versailles: Signed November 11, 1918.

    • Woodrow Wilson heavily involved, sought a stable post-war Europe.
    • Faced opposition from Britain and France wanting to punish Germany.
    • Introduced Wilson's "Fourteen Points":
      • Freedom of the seas.
      • Self-determination of nations.
      • Establishment of League of Nations.
  • Wilson's Health:

    • Contracted Spanish Flu during negotiations.
    • Despite illness, achieved League of Nations creation, but unable to secure all points.

Aftermath

  • U.S. Congress refused to ratify the treaty with League of Nations clause.
    • Concern over potential entanglement in future wars without approval.
  • League of Nations formed without U.S. participation.

Conclusion

  • Overview of Unit 7, Topic 5 in the AP U.S. History curriculum.
  • Encouragement to subscribe for further study aids and exam preparation.