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.

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.

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."

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.

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.

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.