What did the United States do in World War 1?

As a historian with a focus on the 20th-century global conflicts, I can provide you with a comprehensive overview of the United States' involvement in World War I. The U.S. initially adopted a policy of neutrality at the onset of the war in 1914, largely due to President Woodrow Wilson's belief in avoiding entanglement in foreign affairs. However, a series of events and strategic considerations eventually led the U.S. to enter the war on the side of the Allies. Step 1: The Decision to Enter the War The United States declared war on Germany on April 6, 1917, motivated by several factors. The unrestricted submarine warfare policy of the German Empire, which led to the sinking of American merchant ships, was a significant catalyst. The interception and publication of the Zimmermann Telegram, a diplomatic message proposing a military alliance between Germany and Mexico against the U.S., further fueled anti-German sentiment. Additionally, economic ties with the Allies and ideological opposition to autocratic governments also played a role in the decision. **Step 2: Mobilization and Military Leadership** Under the leadership of Major General John J. Pershing, the U.S. began a rapid mobilization of its military forces. The American Expeditionary Forces (AEF) were established, and Pershing was appointed as the commander of the AEF. The U.S. aimed to create a national army, separate from state militias, which led to the Selective Service Act or the draft, mandating military service for men aged 21 to 30. **Step 3: The American Expeditionary Forces in France** More than 2 million U.S. soldiers eventually fought on European battlefields, predominantly in France. The AEF first engaged in combat during the summer of 1918. The Battle of Cantigny in May 1918 marked the first major U.S. offensive on the Western Front. The Aisne-Marne Offensive and the Second Battle of the Marne were significant in halting the German Spring Offensive of 1918. **Step 4: The Hundred Days Offensive and the Armistice** The AEF played a pivotal role in the Hundred Days Offensive, which began in August 1918 and led to the rapid deterioration of the German military position. The Meuse-Argonne Offensive was the largest and most decisive battle in which American forces participated. It was during this time that the U.S. military demonstrated its growing capabilities and effectiveness. The war concluded with the signing of the Armistice of Compiègne on November 11, 1918, which marked the end of hostilities on the Western Front. Step 5: Post-War Impact and Legacy The aftermath of the war had profound effects on the United States. It marked the country's emergence as a major world power and set the stage for its future role in global affairs. The war also led to a surge in patriotism and nationalism, but it was followed by a period of disillusionment due to the failure of the U.S. to join the League of Nations and the perceived lack of benefits from the war. The U.S. involvement in World War I was a transformative event that reshaped the nation's international standing and had lasting implications for its military, economy, and society.

On April 6, 1917, the U.S. joined its allies--Britain, France, and Russia--to fight in World War I. Under the command of Major General John J. Pershing, more than 2 million U.S. soldiers fought on battlefields in France.