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Feb 20, 2024

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Week 5: Case Study Instructor: Aimee James Course: HIST 405 Chamberlain University February 06, 2024 Option 3: World War I Introduction:

World War I, known as the Great War, was a global conflict that occurred from 1914 to 1918. Its impacts were profound, reshaping the geopolitical landscape and setting the stage for future conflicts. In this article, we will delve into the origins of World War I, exploring whether the war was inevitable in 1914. We will also discuss the possibility of the United States maintaining neutrality, analyze the decision for American intervention, evaluate the fairness and effectiveness of the Treaty of Versailles in establishing lasting world peace, and deliberate on whether the United States Senate should have approved the treaty. By examining these aspects, we can gain a deeper understanding of the complexities and consequences of World War I and its aftermath. The rise of nationalism and militarism during the early 20th century contributed to aggressive ambitions and territorial disputes between nations. As noted by Keegan (1998), these factors played a significant role in escalating tensions that ultimately led to World War I. This, combined with militarism, the glorification of military power, and readiness for war, created a volatile atmosphere in Europe. Origins of World War I: Inevitability of the War in 1914 WWI was not an unavoidable consequence but instead the result of a complicated interplay of political alliances, imperial rivalries, and nationalist uncertainties. The assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria-Hungary in June 1914 served as a catalyst, placing off a chain of possibilities that directed to the outburst of battle (Hardach, 1981). Historians claim that the underlying reasons for the battle were long-standing geopolitical stresses that had been brewing for years. These alliances created a sense of obligation among nations, where an attack on one member would lead to the involvement of others. This intricate web of partnerships increased the likelihood of a widespread conflict. Moreover, the purpose of territories and financial aid, along with the

advancement of nationalism and ethnical suspense, contributed to the explosive environment in Europe (Strachan, 2001). Competition for colonies and resources fueled rivalries among nations, while rising nationalism and ethnic tensions further exacerbated the situation. While the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand acted as a trigger for World War I, it is crucial to understand that this event did not solely determine the war's outbreak. These root causes, coupled with the failure of diplomatic resolution, eventually conducted to the outburst of WWI (Hardach, 1981; Strachan, 2001). It is important to recognize that war can be avoided or mitigated through alternative decision-making and diplomatic efforts. However, a complex interplay of factors and the failure to find a peaceful solution led to the escalation of the crisis. Imperialism, nationalism, and militancy were paramount aspects that contributed to the explosive circumstances in Europe. The purpose of territories, aid, and authority guided fierce contests between countries, fueling rivalries and territorial conflicts (Keegan, 1998). Rising nationalism and militarism further escalated tensions as countries sought to assert their dominance and protect their interests. The intricate system of alliances played a significant role in heightening tensions. Countries formed alliances with one another, creating opposing blocs such as the Triple Entente and the Central Powers. These alliances obligated countries to support their allies in the case of conflict, increasing the risk of a widespread war. Maintaining Neutrality: United States' Possibilities The U.S. originally followed a guideline of detachment when WWI busted out, driven by President Woodrow Wilson's ambition to uphold the country out of the battle and maintain its isolationist stance. Several factors influenced this decision. Firstly, the U.S. had a mixed resident with powerful ethnical relations with other warring countries. This variety formed difficult

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household circumstances, as taking sides in the war could potentially lead to internal divisions and conflicts between different ethnic or cultural parties within the nation (Link, 2019). Secondly, the U.S. had financial interests in providing goods to both sides of the battle. The war generated an economic boom, and the United States benefited from trade with the warring nations (Keene et al., 2018). Maintaining neutrality allowed the United States to continue profiting from trade and avoid any disruptions to its economic interests. The Zimmermann Telegram exposed a direct threat to national security, as it demonstrated Germany's intentions to involve Mexico in a potential conflict with the United States. This revelation undermined the perception of neutrality as a viable option for the United States, as it highlighted the potential dangers and risks posed by remaining neutral. Furthermore, the loss of American lives, such as the sinking of the British passenger liner RMS Lusitania in 1915, which resulted in American casualties, also contributed to a shift in public opinion. These incidents, combined with the Zimmermann Telegram, created a growing sentiment that the United States could no longer afford to maintain neutrality in the face of direct threats and attacks. United States Intervention and the Pursuit of Democracy The question of whether the United States should enter World War I to create a democratically secure world was indeed a controversial one. President Woodrow Wilson firmly considered the advancement of democratic values and saw U.S. intervention as an opportunity to spread these regulations around the world. In his influential Fourteen Points speech, President Wilson outlined his vision for a just and lasting peace. He stressed the importance of national self- determination and an end to imperialist practices. Wilson believed that by participating in the war and supporting the Allied forces, the United States could contribute to the establishment of a

more democratic world order. American intervention in World War I had a powerful influence on the consequences of the war and the subsequent peace negotiations. Furthermore, the U.S.'s involvement in the war led to the invention of the League of Country, a global institution that strived to bolster peace and control coming battles (Bailey, 2017). The League of Nations was a significant development in the pursuit of global stability and cooperation. However, the decision for American intervention and the promotion of democracy also faced criticism. Some argued that economic interests and a desire to protect investments were driving factors behind American involvement rather than purely altruistic motives (Keegan, 1998). This perspective suggests that American intervention was influenced by self-interest rather than a genuine commitment to spreading democratic values. The Treaty of Versailles: Fairness and Effectiveness The Treaty of Versailles, inscribed in 1919, sought to designate a framework for peace and hold Germany responsible for the battle. Nevertheless, its justice and efficacy have been matters of continuing argument. The treaty charged extreme terms on Germany, including territorial defeats, military limitations, and serious reparations costs (Meehan, 2014). The punitive measures imposed on Germany by the Treaty of Versailles fueled resentment among the German population. The territorial losses and military restrictions were seen as humiliating and contributed to a sense of injustice. The heavy reparations payments placed a significant load on the already stumbling German economy, leading to financial fluctuation and social unrest (MacMillan, 2013). Furthermore, the harsh terms of the treaty played a role in the rise of Nazism

in Germany. The resentment and economic hardships caused by the treaty created fertile ground for extremist ideologies to take hold. Conclusion: WWI was indeed a massive occurrence with deep outcomes for the earth. Its sources can be outlined as a variety of geopolitical uncertainties, feuds, and partnerships that made the outbreak of war likely increase in 1914. Initially, the U.S. aimed to conserve objectiveness in the conflict —however, a sequence of occasions and transforming general opinion directed a shift in this stance. The purpose of democracy and the passion to shape the postwar globe recreated an important part of America's participatory decision-making. President Woodrow Wilson was a persistent supporter of democracy and noticed U.S. intervention as a possibility to extend democratic worth around the world. Although intended to establish a lasting peace, the Treaty of Versailles has been criticized for its fairness and effectiveness. The harsh terms imposed on Germany, including some territorial defeats, military limitations, and weighty reparations charges, fueled bitterness among the German residents and contributed to the rise of Nazism. WWI acts as a reminder of the sophistication of global connections, the outcomes of geopolitical feuds, and the challenges of gaining eternal harmony. Its influence persists in shaping the course of history. It delivers useful lessons for future eras on the significance of handling underlying problems, facilitating justice, and pursuing sufficient answers in the purpose of harmony.

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Reference: Bailey, T. A. (2017). The Senate rejects the Treaty of Versailles. National Constitution Center. Retrieved from https://constitutioncenter.org/blog/the-senate-rejects-the-treaty-of-versailles . Keene, J. D., Cornell, S., & O'Donnell, E. T. (2018). Visions of America: A History of the United States, Combined Volume (3rd ed.). Pearson. Link, A. (2019). The United States Enters World War I. American Battlefield Trust. Retrieved from https://www.battlefields.org/learn/articles/united-states-enters-world-war-i A War to End All Wars: Part 2Links to an external site. (6:56) https://search-alexanderstreet com.chamberlainuniversity.idm.oclc.org/view/work/bibliographic_entity%7Cvideo_work. Keegan, J. (1998). The First World War. Vintage. MacMillan, M. (2013). The War That Ended Peace: The Road to 1914. Random House. The Treaty of Versailles and the Rise of Nazism Links to an external site https://chamberlainuniversity.idm.oclc.org/login?url=https://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx? direct=true&db=a9h&AN=132888411&site=eds-live&scope=site .

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