Causes of World War I

The build-up of a nation's armed forces and aggressive foreign policy, driven by the fear of other nations' military strength.

Agreements between nations that commit them to defend each other in case of attack.

The policy of acquiring overseas colonies and extending political and economic influence.

An intense sense of pride and love for one's country, sometimes leading to aggressive nationalism.

A plan devised by Germany to quickly defeat France and Russia, ensuring military domination of Europe.

The initial phase of the Schlieffen Plan involved a rapid advance through Belgium to capture Paris, aiming to prevent British reinforcements.

The second phase of the Schlieffen Plan, which called for the German forces to unite and conquer Russia after securing victory in France.

The US initially aimed to remain neutral during World War I, but economic ties and public sentiment shifted the country towards involvement.

The right to free speech and assembly can be limited during times of war if there is a "clear and present danger" to national security.

The Supreme Court case that upheld the internment of Japanese Americans during World War II, arguing it was necessary for national security.

A government-led effort to promote patriotism and support for the war effort during World War I, using propaganda like posters, pamphlets, and speeches.

A group of individuals who gave brief, persuasive speeches throughout the country to promote public support for the war effort during World War I.

A plan for peace after World War I, proposed by President Woodrow Wilson, aiming to establish a league of nations to promote international cooperation and prevent future wars.

The clause in the Treaty of Versailles that placed full blame for the war on Germany, requiring them to pay reparations for the damage caused by the war.

A proposed international organization designed to maintain peace and prevent future wars by providing a forum for international cooperation and dispute resolution.

An article in the League of Nations Covenant that obligated member nations to defend each other against aggression.

A policy where Germany aimed to sink any ships approaching Britain, regardless of their neutrality or cargo, to cut off supplies.

A pledge made by Germany in 1916, promising to restrict its submarine warfare to military targets, largely aiming to prevent American entry into the war.

A coded telegram sent from Germany to Mexico proposing an alliance against the United States in 1917. This interception further fueled American anger towards Germany and contributed to the declaration of war.

The sinking of a British passenger liner by a German submarine in 1915, killing 128 Americans. This event greatly intensified public outrage towards Germany, pushing America closer to war.

A 1917 act that criminalized any act of obstructing the war effort, including speech deemed disloyal or supportive of the enemy.

A 1918 act that criminalized any speech deemed to be critical of the government, military, or war effort. It significantly restricted freedom of speech during the war.

A major shift in American society during WWI, with millions of African Americans migrating from the rural South to northern cities seeking better employment and social opportunities.

The mobilization of American resources, manpower, and industry to support the war effort during WWI. This included raising funds, building a powerful military, and producing war materials.

A selective mandatory service for military recruitment during WWI, requiring young men to register and be potentially drafted into the armed forces.

The 19th Amendment to the Constitution, which granted women the right to vote in 1920. This was partially influenced by women's contributions to the war effort during WWI.