Conflict in the Early 20th Century, 1890–1945

It was an effort to mediate peace between conflicting nations, avoiding direct confrontation.

The strategy sought to engage Mexico in a war against the U.S. to distract it and reclaim lost territories.

It encouraged the spread of democratic ideals in line with global movements of the time.

It aimed to maintain strict neutrality to prevent U.S. entry into World War I.

They inspired numerous colonial nations to seek independence after being exposed to ideas of national sovereignty.

They discouraged self-determination movements due to Wilson’s emphasis on collective security over autonomy.

They were universally adopted immediately following WWI, ending all colonial empires by 1920.

They led directly to successful revolutions in major empires during Wilson's presidency.

Resulted in immediate legislative changes regarding military service.

Reinforced the importance of patriotic duty among American citizens.

Caused an increase in skepticism towards military engagement.

Contributed to a rise in anti-war protests throughout the nation.

To provide a foundation for world peace and prevent future conflicts after World War I.

To promote democratic governance globally, replacing monarchies with democracies.

To expand American influence and establish a new world order under U.S. leadership.

To reassert American isolationism by avoiding future entanglements in European affairs.

Tsar Nicholas II

Archduke Franz Ferdinand

Kaiser Wilhelm II

President Woodrow Wilson

The outbreak of WWI following the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand

Growing tensions due to the Russian Revolution's impact on the war effort

The interception of the Zimmermann Telegram, revealing a proposed alliance between Germany and Mexico

Germany's resumed practice of unrestricted submarine warfare

World War I and its aftermath

The impact of the Industrial Revolution on military technology

The geopolitical tensions of the Cold War era

European colonial expansion in the late 19th and early 20th centuries

To keep the USA neutral and, failing that, ally with Mexico against the USA.

To intimidate the United States into neutrality during World War I.

To persuade Mexico to adopt a stance of neutrality in World War I.

To establish an economic and military alliance with Japan and Mexico to challenge British naval dominance.

Its status as a colonial power

Its image as a world power

Its reputation for military neutrality

Its role as an isolationist nation

The American public universally supported entry into both wars from the start.

Public opinion was more opposed to involvement at the beginning of both wars but was stronger against joining WWI than it was against entering WWII.

Dissenters formed a majority in the case of WWII as compared to WWI.

Both wars saw equal opposition towards American involvement.