History 131 US History From 1865 To Present Quinney Fall 201

History 131 Us History From 1865 To Presentquinney Fall 2017histori

History 131: U.S. HISTORY FROM 1865 TO PRESENT QUINNEY FALL 2017 Historical Thinking Essay #1: Woodrow Wilson and World War I

Compare and contrast the various ways in which Americans expressed their favor or opposition to World War I. Which voices seem the most patriotic in your view? Why? With regard to the recent controversy regarding Wilson’s historical legacy, where do you stand? Should Wilson’s name be removed from institutions, such as the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars? Regardless of your position on this debate, be sure to express your democratic right to explain why you hold it. This assignment requires that you rely on at least five (5) primary source documents as evidence; choose evidence that reflects both opposition to and support for the war. Your paper should be between 3 and 5 pages (no more than 1250 words), double spaced.

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Paper For Above instruction

The United States' entry into World War I in 1917 marked a pivotal moment in American history, eliciting a spectrum of responses from its citizens. These reactions ranged from fervent support rooted in patriotic ideals to vehement opposition grounded in pacifism and dissent. Analyzing primary sources from this period provides insights into the diverse perspectives, embodying the complexities of democratic engagement and national identity.

Expressions of Support for World War I

Many Americans viewed participation in World War I as a patriotic duty essential to defending democracy and ensuring national security. President Woodrow Wilson articulated this sentiment with his famous declaration that the war was necessary to make the world “safe for democracy” (Wilson, 1917). This call for intervention framed the war as a moral crusade, appealing to Americans’ sense of patriotism and duty. Wilson’s speech exemplifies the leadership narrative that endorsed the war effort as a righteous endeavor.

Propaganda played a significant role in rallying support. The “Four Minute Men,” a group of volunteer speakers, delivered speeches nationwide, emphasizing themes of patriotism, unity, and sacrifice (North American Review, 1917). Additionally, patriotic songs such as “Over There” and “When the Lusitania Went Down” fueled national fervor by celebrating American involvement and mourning the loss of civilian lives, respectively. Visual posters, like the “Anti-Enlistment League” poster, though promoting opposition, also served to reinforce the idea that supporting the war was a patriotic act to defend American values and interests.

Voices of Opposition to World War I

Opposition to the war emerged from various groups, including socialists, pacifists, and some civic leaders who believed that war violated moral principles and threatened civil liberties. Eugene Debs, a prominent socialist leader, delivered a powerful speech in Canton, Ohio, where he condemned the war as a tool of capitalist interests that exploited ordinary workers (Debs, 1918). His speech emphasized the importance of workers resisting imperialist wars and highlighted the deep economic motivations behind U.S. involvement.

The Anti-Enlistment League posters and writings by artists like Winsor McCay exemplify opposition, portraying war as destructive and contrary to human compassion. The lyrics of “I Didn’t Raise My Boy to Be a Soldier” articulated pacifist sentiments, challenging patriotic narratives and advocating for peace. Furthermore, Voices such as Robert M. La Follette criticized the war as lacking public support and questioned the government’s motives, emphasizing democratic principles and the importance of public consensus (La Follette, 1917).

Assessing Patriotism in Different Voices

From a contemporary perspective, determining which voices are most patriotic depends on the criteria used—whether loyalty to country, moral conviction, or democratic principles. Wilson’s appeal to democracy and moral responsibility exemplifies a form of patriotic leadership rooted in ideals. Conversely, Debs’ opposition reflects a patriotic concern for justice and workers’ rights, challenging the government’s narrative from a principled stance. Both perspectives reveal forms of deep engagement with national values.

In my view, Wilson’s portrayal of fighting “to make the world safe for democracy” aligns with patriotic ideals because it emphasizes defending democratic principles on a global scale. However, this can be complicated by the suppression of dissent during wartime, which questions the true commitment to democratic processes. Conversely, Debs’ refusal to support the war based on moral objections exemplifies a different, yet equally patriotic, form of engagement—standing up for civil liberties and anti-war principles.

The Wilson Legacy and Modern Controversy

The reevaluation of Woodrow Wilson’s legacy has gained traction in recent years, sparked by his segregationist policies and racist attitudes. Critics argue that honoring Wilson by associating his name with institutions like the Wilson International Center for Scholars perpetuates an incomplete and problematic legacy. Supporters claim that his contributions to American and global diplomacy, including the League of Nations concept, warrant recognition despite his flaws.

Personally, I believe that Wilson’s legacy should be critically examined and contextualized rather than outright erased from history. Removing his name from institutions may be a reactive step that overlooks the complexities of history. Instead, a more nuanced approach involves acknowledging both his achievements and prejudiced policies, fostering a more honest engagement with history that allows for critical reflection and learning. As citizens, it is our democratic right to question and debate historical figures and their legacies, ensuring that history remains a space for ongoing conversation rather than uncritical veneration.

Conclusion

The varied expressions of support and opposition to U.S. involvement in World War I reflect the democratic fabric of American society during a tumultuous period. Patriotic voices like Wilson’s endorsed national security and democracy, while opposition voices emphasized moral integrity and civil liberties. Analyzing primary sources reveals that patriotism encompasses a range of convictions, each contributing to the broader understanding of American identity. The debate over Wilson’s legacy underscores the importance of continually reevaluating historical figures within the context of contemporary values, reinforcing the democratic principle of critical engagement with history.

References

• Debs, E. V. (1918). “Canton, Ohio” Speech, June 16, 1918.
• La Follette, R. M. (1917). “It Has No Popular Support,” Speech to Congress, April 4, 1917.
• North American Review. (1917). “Four Minute Men: Volunteer Speeches during World War I.”
• Roark, J. L., et al. (Year). The American Promise, Chapter 22.
• Wilson, W. (1917). “Making the World Safe for Democracy,” April 2, 1917.