US History: World War I & World War II

What are the four 'MAIN' long-term causes of World War I?

Militarism, Alliances, Imperialism, and Nationalism.

What was the significance of the Zimmermann Telegram?

It was a secret German proposal to Mexico for an alliance against the U.S., which helped push the United States into WWI.

How did the sinking of the Lusitania affect U.S. public opinion?

It turned American sentiment against Germany and challenged U.S. neutrality after 128 Americans died in the submarine attack.

What characterized the Western Front during World War I?

A brutal stalemate defined by trench warfare, where neither side could make significant territorial gains.

What was the impact of the 'War Guilt Clause' in the Treaty of Versailles?

It forced Germany to accept full responsibility for WWI and pay massive financial reparations, contributing to future economic and political instability.

Why did the U.S. Senate reject the League of Nations?

Senators feared it would draw the U.S. into future European conflicts and infringe on the constitutional power of Congress to declare war.

What was the primary cause of the First Red Scare in the U.S. after WWI?

Fear that the Bolshevik Revolution in Russia would spread communism and radicalism to the United States.

What economic shift defined the 'Roaring 20s' in the United States?

A transition to a mass consumer culture fueled by installment buying, new technologies, and increased urban living.

Beyond the stock market crash, what was a structural cause of the Great Depression?

Overproduction in industry and agriculture combined with unequal distribution of wealth and excessive consumer debt.

What was the primary philosophy behind Franklin D. Roosevelt's New Deal?

The federal government should take an active role in the economy to provide relief, recovery, and reform.