The U-boats Come to America, PDF attached and CITED - Assignment Example

Article: The U-boats come to America, PDF attached and CITED The First World War was without a doubt one of the most casualty filled and destructive war that was ever witnessed by the world. In this particular era, the feelings of extreme nationalism were adopted by several countries. Tensions flared between nations after the assassination of Archduke Ferdinand, and suddenly Europe was in turmoil. However, the American policy was clear about this situation, which was to adopt neutrality and to focus in domestic affairs. Yet, when the horror of trench warfare reached the shores of America, it was clear that America’s involvement in WWI was vital. The mobilization for World War I was no easy task as the nation was still divided regarding Wilson’s decision to enter the way. Nevertheless, WWI became a focal point in American history because it gave an opportunity for America to assert its dominance as a foreign power and give rise to social reforms. Without a doubt, WWI was turning point in American history because it gave an opportunity to America to display its awesome power. World War was a war that was indisputably fueled by American propaganda by portraying the Axis power as supreme evil. Unmistakably, this was heavy task since so many European descents resided in America. The sinking of the U-boat was undoubtedly a huge catalyst that initiated the American involvement. This is greatly depicted via the article in the newspaper which states, “The U-boats come to America.” The author states that, “It maybe argued that the foreign assumptions are purely subjective.” (Skertet 2) However was evident that the United States Navy had to prepare itself for the worse and was already aligning itself with future Allies. It is clear that this was to issue somewhat of Propaganda to rally the American citizens. Europe’s condition at this point was tense, and the American aid to Allies illustrated the fact that America’s involvement was much needed (Michaels 40). Suddenly, the American economy was jolted with a huge shock as it began to produce war-related goods. The United States did not hesitate to supply its war-related products such as weapons, supplies, and ships in order to change the tide of the war (Ebert 9). Although American troops were sent overseas, they fought very little and were responsible for providing moral support. Secondly, World War I was a focal point in American history because it gave rise to social reform throughout the nation. Women and African Americans in particular were two groups that were able to take an opportunity to break their “cult of domesticity”. For the first time in history, women were able to acquire employment in industries that were produced goods for the war. Furthermore, women were able to propagate to concentrate their efforts for the war by staffing and organizing relief efforts along with pushing mass movements of food conservation (Michaels 40). The effort to publish the propaganda was to rally and unite the troops. The author again states by stating “The U boats are wandering the waters of America.” (Skerett 2). All of the points mentioned above clearly prove that American foreign policy remained same pre and post World War I. The Great Depression was one of the main factors that influenced the American foreign policy to remain neutral (Ebert 8). After Hoover’s departure, it was essential for the American economy to recover from the dark marks left by inflation, unemployment during the Great Depression. Under Woodrow Wilson’s leadership, it was clear that America at this point needed to avoid any alliances that would serve as a barrier to focus in domestic affairs (Ebert 22). When the news of WWI reached the ears of American citizens, many were reluctant to take any interest. Furthermore, the conflict with Mexico domestically, served as a huge barrier to get involvement in any European matters. Yet, it was clear that American involvement in WWI was essential since America suffered when unarmed cargo American ships were targeted by the German submarines. The aftermath of WWI left Europe in extreme chaos, and suddenly American foreign policy was to practice isolationism. Nevertheless, the American motives were self-centered, narrow, and held little interest in international peace. At this point, American diplomatic policy was aggressive and selfish since America did not want to be bounded by any treaties (Carolan 6). The United States was reluctant to join the League of Nations, even though it was an issue that Wilson supported heavily. Clearly, it was not in the best interest for the United States to be a member of the League of Nations because it would force a commitment of American involvement in European disputes. It only seemed logical for United States to demand Europe to pay debts that were borrowed during WWI, which caused even a great distress to European countries (Carolan 6). Economic and social affairs were also one of the critical factors that influenced the United States to practice isolationism in the 1920’s. With political upheaval and worker strikes dominating the nation, internal harmony was the main focus for the United States at these troubling times (Ebert 22). Lastly, the horrors of World War I influenced America to stay away from any international involvement post World War I. Without a doubt, World War I was a turning point not only in American history but European history too. American’s involvement in WWI surged American economy along with the push of social reform. Even so, the American policy in both eras was similar, which was to practice isolationism in order to focus in internal affairs. The legacy of World War I will continue to impact decisions and foreign policies even in the twenty-first century. Works Cited "American Entry into World War I, 1917 - 1914–1920 - Milestones - Office of the Historian." American Entry into World War I, 1917 - 1914–1920 - Milestones - Office of the Historian. N.p., n.d. Web. 26 Sept. 2014. . Carolan, Victoria. WWI at sea. Harpenden: Pocket Essentials, 2007. Print. Ebbert, Jean, and Marie Hall. Crossed currents: Navy women from WWI to Tailhook. Washington: Brasseys (US), 1993. Print. Skerett, Robert. “The U boats come to America.” Washington, USA, Newspaper. Print Read More