H104 Essay 3 US History 1877–Present Due Date Extended

H104essay 3 Us History 1877 Presentdue Date Extended Until Monday Apr

Chapter 20: How did the US end up getting involved in World War I after trying to stay out of it for so long? Once the US entered the war, how did the government try to manipulate Americans to become and remain loyal and patriotic? The essay is worth 6.25 points: Up to 2 points for the length of the paper. 1 full page handwritten or typed in 12 point font & double spaced (one blank line between each line of type). Up to 1.5 points for answering all parts of the question. Up to 2.75 points for correctly using chapter vocabulary words in your analysis.

Paper For Above instruction

Throughout the early 20th century, the United States initially maintained a policy of neutrality amidst the growing tensions and conflicts in Europe, particularly with the outbreak of World War I in 1914. However, several pivotal events gradually drew America into the conflict, despite its initial intentions to remain uninvolved. The sinking of the Lusitania in 1915, which resulted in the loss of American lives due to German submarine attacks, and the intercepted Zimmermann Telegram, in which Germany proposed a military alliance with Mexico against the United States, significantly shifted public opinion and political stance. These incidents exposed the aggressive stance of the Central Powers and highlighted the threats to American interests, prompting the government to reconsider its neutrality. Consequently, the U.S. declared war on Germany in April 1917, marking its official entry into World War I.

Once involved, the U.S. government employed various strategies to manipulate public sentiment and foster patriotism. The Committee on Public Information, led by George Creel, orchestrated widespread propaganda campaigns promoting loyalty to the war effort, emphasizing themes of nationalism, duty, and sacrifice. Posters, speeches, and newspapers were used to depict the conflict as a moral crusade, encouraging Americans to support enlistment and conserve resources. Draft laws, such as the Selective Service Act, enabled the government to conscript citizens, further uniting the nation under the banner of patriotism. Additionally, the Espionage Act of 1917 and the Sedition Act of 1918 restricted dissent, criminalizing anti-war speech and suppressing opposition, thereby controlling public discourse and ensuring unwavering support for the war effort. These measures aimed to reinforce national unity and diminish the influence of anti-war sentiments, leveraging ideas of national security and moral righteousness to galvanize American society during a time of global conflict.

In conclusion, the United States' entry into World War I was shaped by a series of international incidents that eroded its neutrality. Once involved, the government actively manipulated the American populace through propaganda, legislation, and censorship to bolster loyalty and combat dissent. These efforts were crucial in maintaining a unified front during a period marked by unprecedented global upheaval and violence.

References

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